:jr&       Cjy   fs  eyjS  *  /y 

.    /> ^? -x>  e        6^-x  <^    ^  ^'    4^  ^  ^'^  ''  /^      '  ^ 

/  .        *r- 
HISTORICAL  MEMOIR 


OF 


THE  WAR 


IN 


WEST  FLORIDA  AND  LOUISIANA 

IN   1814-15. 


WITH  AN  ATLAS. 


BY  MAJOR  A.  LACARRIERE  LATOUR, 

Principal  Engineer  in  the  late  Seventh  Military  District  United  States'  Army. 

WJUTTEST  OJlIGINAttT  IN  FRENCH,  AND  TRANSLATED  FOR  THE  AtfTBOR, 

BY  H.  P.  NUGENT,  ESQ. 


Bis  Tusci  Hutulos  egere  ad  casfra  revei'sos, 
Bis  rejecti  armis  respectant  terga  tegentes. 

Turbati  fugiunt  Rutuli — — 

Disjectique  duces,  desolatique  manipli, 

Tuta  petunt.  •  Virg. 


PHILADELPHIA: 
PUBLISHED  BY  JOHN  CONRAD  AND  CO. 

J.  Maxwell,  printer. 

OF  THE'  1816. 

Of 


L> 


DISTRICT  OF  PENNSYLVANIA,  to  wit: 

BE  IT  REMEMBERED,  That  on  the  sixth  day  of  March,  in  the  fortieth  year 
of  the  independence  of  the  United  States  of  America,  A.  D.  1816,  ARSENJ: 
LACARHIERE  LATOIJU,  of  the  said  district,  hath  deposited  in  this  office  the  title 
of  a  Book,  the  right  whereof  he  claims  as  Author,  in  the  words  following,  towit: 

Historical  Memoir  of  the  war  in  West  Florida  and  Louisiana  in  1814-15. 
with  an  Atlas.  By  major  A.  Lacarriere  Latour,  principal  engineer  in  the  late 
seventh  military  district  United  States'  army.  Written  originally  in  French, 
and  translated  for  the  author,  hy  H.  P.  Nugent,  esqr. 

Eis  Tusci  Rutulos  egere  ad  caatra  reverses, 

Bis  reject!  armis  respectant  terga  tegentes. 

Turbati  fugiunt  Rutuli — — 

Disjectique  duces,  desolatique  manipli, 

Tula  petunt. Virg. 

In  conformity  to  the  act  of  congress  of  the  United  States,  entitled,  "An  act 
for  the  encouragement  of  learning,  by  securing  the  copies  of  maps,  charts,  and 
books  to  the  authors  and  proprietors  of  such  copies  during  the  times  there 
in  mentioned."  And  also  to  the  act,  entitled,  "  An  act  supplementary  to 
an  act,  entitled,  "  An  act  for  the  encouragement  of  learning,  by  securing  the 
copies  of  maps,  charts,  and  books,  to  the  authors  and  proprietors  of  such 
copies  during  the  times  therein  mentioned,  and  extending  the  benefits  there 
of  to  the  arts  of  designing,  engravings  and  etching  historical  and  other  prints." 

DAVID  CALDWELL, 
Clerk  of~  the  District  of  Pennsylvania, 


TO 
MAJ.  GEN.  ANDREW  JACKSON. 

SIR, 

Allow  me  to  offer  you  the  following  pages,  in  which  I  have 
endeavoured  to  record  the  events  of  that  memorable  cam 
paign  which  preserved  our  country  from  conquest  and 
desolation.  The  voice  of  the  whole  nation  has  spared 
me  the  task  of  showing  bow  much  of  these  important  re 
sults  are  due  to  the  energy,  ability  and  courage  of  a 
single  man. 

O 

Receive,  sir,  with  this  inadequate  tribute  to  your  high  merits, 
the  assurance  of  respect  and  devotion  with  which  I  have 
the  honour  to  be, 

Sir, 
Your  most  obedient 

and  humble  servant, 

A.  LACARRIERE  LATOUR. 
Orleans,  August  16,  1315. 


^    o* 


PREFACE 


THE  immense  debt  of  Great  Britain,  and  the  ex 
penses  of  a  war  carried  on  for  nearly  twenty  years 
with  hardly  any  intermission,  having  exhausted  the  or 
dinary  sources  of  her  riches,  while  the  war  continued  to 
rage  with  greater  fury  than  ever,  she  found  herself  com 
pelled  to  create  new  resources  to  enable  her  to  perse 
vere  in  the  arduous  struggle  in  which  she  was  engaged. 
For  this  purpose  the  rights  of  neutral  nations,  founded 
on  the  principles  of  natural  equity,  established  for  many 
ages  by  the  unanimous  consent  of  civilized  nations,  and 
secured  by  the  faith  of  a  long  succession  of  treaties, 
were  openly  violated  by  the  English  government,  which, 
prompted  by  its  inordinate  ambition,  wished  to  appro 
priate  to  itself  the  lives  and  fortunes  of  their  peaceabk 
citizens.  To  accomplish  this  purpose,  it  became  ne 
cessary  to  set  aside  those  principles  which,  until  ther^ 
had  been  universally  acknowledged,  and  to  substitute 
new  political  axioms  in  their  stead.  By  the  mere  ar 
bitrary  declaration  of  the  British  cabinet,  the  right  of 
blockade  was  extended  over  the  most  extensive  coasts, 
which  all  the  maritime  power  of  the  world  combined 


Viii  PREFACE. 

could  not  have  blockaded  with  effect.*  The  obsolete 
right  of  searching  neutral  ships  for  enemy's  property, 
this  absurd  remnant  of  the  barbarous  jurisprudence  of 
the  dark  ages,  justly  rejected  by  the  more  enlightened 
policy  of  later  times,  was  revived  and  enforced  with  in- 

*  The  pretended  right  of  blockade  never  appeared  in  so  ridi 
culous  a  light  as  immediately  after  the  departure  of  the  emperor 
Napoleon  from  the  island  of  Elba.  It  was  then  strongly  surmised, 
and  not  without  some  probability,  that  the  British  government  had 
connived  at  his  escape,  and  to  refute  this  charge,  lord  Liverpool 
was  compelled  to  declare  in  the  house  of  lords,  on  the  7th  of  April, 
1815,  (seethe  newspapers  of  the  times)  that  the  whole  British  na 
vy  'would  be  insufficient  to  blockade  the  island  of  Elba;  it  is  true, 
he  added  the  qualifying  sentence:  so  as  to  fire-vent  the  escape  of 
an  individual  who  chose  to  leave  it.  But  when  we  consider  the 
manner  in  which  Napoleon  sailed  from  that  island,  with  several 
armed  vessels,  and  a  considerable  body  of  troops,  who  will  not 
laugh  at  the  blockading  pretensions  of  Great  Britain,  if  it  is  true, 
as  lord  Liverpool  clearly  meant  to  intimate,  that  the  whole  British 
navy  was  insufficient  to  prevent  such  an  escafie  from  a  small 
island? 

Mathematical  truth  is  not  to  be  looked  for  in  the  speeches  of 
British  ministers;  the  blockade  of  the  port  of  Rochefort  by  a  sin 
gle  squadron,  which  afterwards  so  effectually  prevented  the  same 
individual  from  escaping,  even  in  an  open  boat,  is  an  incontestible 
proof  of  lord  Liverpool's  exaggeration;  but  it  is  not  the  less  true, 
that  his  assertion,  exaggerated  as  it  is,  will  ever  remain  the  most 
cutting  satire  against  the  absurd  claims  of  his  government  on  the 
subject  of  blockade.  • 


PREFACE.  IX 

creased  severity,  and  the  right  of  pressing  seamen  on 
board  of  neutral  vessels  was  claimed  as  a  consequence 
of  the  same  principle,  while,  by  a  further  extension  of 
the  rights  of  belligerents,  the  trade  of  neutrals  with  the 
colonial  possession  of  enemies,  was  at  times  entirely 
prohibited,  and  at  others  partially  tolerated,  by  decrees 
which  the  belligerent  government  could  construe  at  plea 
sure,  and  which  only  served  to  allure  the  unwary,  and 
secure  a  certain  prey  to  the  hungry  swarm  of  British 
cruisers.  Thus  the  plunder  of  neutrals,  and  the  im 
pressment  of  their  seamen,  were  erected  into  a  system, 
^he  true  principles  of  which  could  only  be  discovered 
from  its  effects. 

The  United  States  of  America,  whose  industrious 
citizens  carried  on  a  regular  and  immense  commerce 
with  all  the  nations  of  the  globe,  which  had  long  ex 
cited  the  jealousy  of  their  powerful  rival,  experienced 
more  than  any  other  nation  the  pernicious  effects  of  the 
new  system,  conceived  and  executed  by  this  over 
bearing  state;  and  indeed  it  appeared  to  have  been  es 
tablished  principally  with  a  view  to  check  their  com 
mercial  pursuits.  The  American  vessels  were  plun 
dered,  detained,  or  confiscated.  The  mariners  were  im 
pressed  upon  the  most  frivolous  pretences,  put  on  board 
the  ships  of  war  of  His  Britannic  majesty,  and  subject 
ed  to  the  most  rigorous  treatment,  in  order  to  compel 
them  to  shed  their  blood  in  a  cause  in  which  they  were 


X  PREFACE. 

not  interested.  On  the  high  seas,  in  neutral  har 
bours,  upon  the  coasts,  and  even  in  the  waters  exclu 
sively  subject  to  the  jurisdiction  of  the  United  States, 
the  American  seamen  were  seized  by  the  petty  offi 
cers  of  the  British  navy,  who  constituted  themselves 
judges,  de  facto,  of  the  most  sacred  prerogatives  of 
man,  and  from  the  mere  similarity  of  names,  or,  as 
their  caprice  dictated,  transformed  a  free  citizen  into  a 
slave,  without  regard  to  the  place  of  his  birth,  or  to  the 
natural  and  unalienable  right,  that  all  men  have  to 
choose  their  country.  The  sacred  flag  of  the  govern 
ment  itself  was  no  longer  a  sufficient  protection;  the 
sanctuary  of  a  ship  of  war  was  violated — freemen  were 
dragged  by  force  and  carried  away,  in  savage  triumph, 
from  an  American  frigate  sailing  quietly,  in  the  midst 
of  a  profound  peace; — the  most  ignominious  punish 
ment But  I  forbear. — This  unheard  of  outrage, 

which  then,  for  the  first  time,  astonished  the  world,  has 
been  since  sufficiently  avenged. 

The  American  government  at  first  only  opposed 
co  these  enormous  violations  of  the  law  of  nations  mild 
and  conciliating  representations,  and  pacific  measures, 
which  produced  only  some  partial  and  momentary  dis 
avowals  and  reparations.  With  the  humane  view  of 
saving  the  country  from  the  horrors  of  war,  and  in 
hopes  of  inducing  England  to  adopt  principles  of  equity 
and  moderation,  by  making  her  government  perceive 


PREFACE.  XI 

that  the  people  of  America  would  never  submit  to  mea 
sures  so  tyrannical  and  degrading,  the  national  legis 
lature  resolved  to  interdict  every  sort  of  foreign  com 
merce,  and  laid  an  embargo  on  all  the  ports  of  the 
United  States. 

This  measure  received  the  approbation  of  the 
whole  nation.  The  citizens  no  longer  deceived  them 
selves  with  respect  to  the  views  and  motives  of  the  Bri 
tish  government.  They  preferred  submitting  for  a  time 
to  the  inconveniences  which  the  stagnation  of  commerce 
would  naturally  produce,  to  seeing  their  country  ex 
posed  to  endless  humiliations,  or  compelled  to  engage 
in  a  war,  the  effects  of  which  could  not  be  calculated. 
For  it  was  believed  by  many,  that  the  constitution  of 
the  United  States  was  only  suited  for  a  state  of  peace, 
and  that  war  would  infallibly  produce  a  dissolution  of 
the  union.  These  considerations  were  weighty,  and 
might  well  induce  a  nation  to  pause  before  it  involved 
itself  in  a  contest  which  seemed  to  threaten  such  a 
fatal  issue. — The  embargo  was  then  a  wise  measure, 
as  there  appeared  no  alternative  between  it  and  war. 
Indeed  it  is  probable  that  if  it  had  been  continued,  we 
mi^ht  have  avoided  a  recourse  to  arms,  and  compelled 
Great  Britain  to  return  to  the  practice,  if  not  to  the  prin 
ciples  of  justice. 

But  it  was  not  so  ordered,  and  after  little  more  than 
one  year  the  embargo  was  removed.     Let  us  throw  a 


PREFACE. 

patriotic  veil  over  the  causes  which  produced  this  un 
expected  step.  It  does  not  belong  to  me  to  inquire 
into  its  expediency  or  its  motives.  Such  an  inquiry 
is  entirely  foreign  to  the  purposes  of  this  work.  As  it 
was  to  be  expected,  the  resumption  of  maritime  com 
merce  was  followed  by  a  renewal  of  spoliations  on  the 
part  of  Great  Britain,  who  mistook  our  patience  for 
weakness,  and  ascribed  to  timidity  and  other  unworthy 
motives,  a  conduct  which  merely  arose  from  an  earnest 
and  laudable  desire  to  preserve  peace,  and  avoid  the 
effusion  of  human  blood.  Far  from  foreseeing  the  pri 
vations  and  hardships  to  which  the  people  of  America 
would  submit,  and  the  exertions  which  they  were  ca 
pable  of  making,  if  driven  to  extremity,  Britain,  blind 
ed  by  her  pride,  saw  in  the  removal  of  the  embargo 
nothing  else  than  the  result  of  an  inordinate  thirst  for 
maritime  commerce,  and  an  effeminate  attachment  to 
the  luxuries  with  which  she  had  been  in  the  habit  of 
supplying  us.  As  little  she  foresaw  how  much  she 
would  have  to  suffer  before  she  discovered  her  mis 
take — how  much  of  her  treasure  was  to  be  spent,  and 
of  her  blood  was  to  be  spilt,  before  she  should  be  taught 
to  know  the  spirit  and  perseverance  of  a  nation  which 
she  affected  to  view  with  contempt.  At  last  the  repe 
tition  of  injuries  filled  the  measure  of  American  long 
animity,  and  WAR  was  solemnly  declared  by  the  United 
States,  on  the  18th  of  June,  1812.  So  little  premedi- 


PREFACE.  X1U 

tated  was  this  measure — so  much  was  it  produced  by  a 
sudden  burst  of  the  national  indignation,  that  no  prepa 
rations  had  been  made  to  support  the  dreadful  contest 
that  was  now  about  to  take  place.  Our  military  es 
tablishment  was  hardly  sufficient  to  afford  garrisons  for 
the  most  exposed  points  of  our  widely -extended  fron 
tier — the  numerous  ports  upon  our  sea-board  were 
kft  exposed,  unguarded  and  unfortified,  and  our  ma 
rine  consisted  only  of  a  few  ships  of  war.  But  the 
bravery  and  energy  of  our  citizens  promised  abundant 
resources  for  our  military  operations  on  the  land  side, 
and  the  skill  and  martial  ardour  of  our  seamen,  and 
particularly  their  excellent  commanders,  presaged  cer 
tain  and  glorious  triumphs  on  the  ocean.  The  riches 
of  an  immense  soil,  and  the  activity  and  patriotism  of 
its  inhabitants,  gave  a  sufficient  pledge  to  the  govern 
ment  to  justify  the  reliance  which  they  had  placed  on 
the  aid  and  co-operation  of  the  nation,  which,  on  another 
and  ever- memorable  occasion,  had  proved  to  the  world 
that  there  are  no  sacrifices  that  it  is  not  ready  to  make 
in  support  of  its  independence,  and  in  the  defence  of  its 
just  rights. 

Thus  the  United  States  were  forced  into  a  war 
which  they  had  not  provoked; — America  took  up  arms 
in  support  of  her  rights,  and  for  the  preservation  of  her 
national  honour,  with  a  firm  determination  not  lay  them 
down  until  the  object  should  be  attained.  Provi* 


XIV  PREFACE. 

dence  blessed  our  efforts,  and  our  arms  were  crowned 
with  the  most  brilliant  triumphs  over  those  of  our  ene 
my.  The  army  and  navy  exhibited  a  noble  rivalship 
of  zeal,  devotion,  and  glory.  In  the  one  Lawrence, 
Bainbridge,  Decatur,  Perry,  M'Donough,  Porter; — 
in  the  other  Pike,  Scott,  Brown,  Jackson,  and  many 
more,  proved  to  the  enemy,  and  to  the  world,  that  we 
possessed  resolution  to  defend  our  rights,  and  power  to 
avenge  our  injuries. 

The  relation  of  these  various  exploits  is  the  proper 
province  of  history.  An  abler  pen  than  mine  will  one 
day  consecrate  to  posterity  this  monument  of  American 
fame.  My  humble  task  has  been  to  collect  a  part  of 
the  materials  that  may  serve  to  erect  it,  and  which  I 
offer  in  the  present  work. 

The  volume  which  I  present  to  the  public  is  de 
voted  to  the  relation  of  the  campaign  of  the  end  of  1814 
and  beginning  of  1815:  that  is  to  say,  from  the  first  ar 
rival  of  the  British  forces  on  the  coast  of  Louisiana,  in 
September,  until  the  total  evacuation,  in  consequence  of 
the  treaty  of  peace,  including  a  period  of  about  seven 
months.  During  that  space  of  time,  particularly  from 
the  14th  of  December  to  the  19th  of  January,  events  of 
the  highest  importance  succeeded  each  other  with  ra 
pidity;  but  it  was  in  the  short  period,  from  the  23d  of 
December,  the  day  of  the  landing  of  the  British  troops. 


PREFACE.  XV 

to  the  memorable  8th  of  January,  that  the  American 
arms  acquired  that  lustre  which  no  time  can  efface. 

Nee  fioterit  temfms^  nee  edax  abolere  -uetustas. 

The  preparations  which  the  British  government 
had  made  for  the  conquest  of  Louisiana  were  immense. 
So  certain  were  they  of  complete  success,  that  a  full  set 
of  officers,  for  the  administration  of  civil  government, 
from  the  judge  down  to  the  tide-waiter,  had  embarked 
on  board  of  the  squadron  with  the  military  force.    The 
British  speculators,  who  are  always  found  in  the  train  of 
military  expeditions,  had  freighted  a  part  of  the  trans 
ports  for  conveying  the  expected  booty,  which  they  es 
timated  beforehand  at  more  than  fourteen  millions  of 
dollars.    The  British  government  well  knew  that  they 
could  not  keep  Louisiana,  even  if  they  should  obtain 
the  possession  of  it.     They  were  not  ignorant  that  the 
western  states  could  pour  down,  if  necessary,  one  hun 
dred  thousand  men  to  repel  the  invaders;  they  therefore 
could  only  rely  on  a  momentary  occupation,  which  they 
hoped,  nevertheless,  to  prolong  sufficiently  to  give  them 
time  to  pillage  and  lay  waste  the  country.    Therefore 
they  had  neglected  no  means  of  securing  the  plunder 
which  they  expected  to  make.  Such,  indeed,  was  their 
certainty  of  success  that  it  was  not  thought  necessary 
in  Europe  to  conceal  the  object  of  the  expedition.    At 
Bordeaux,  at  the  time  of  the  embarkation  of  the  troops, 
the  conquest  of  Louisiana  was  publicly  spoken  of  as  an 


XVI  PREFACE. 

enterprize  that  could  not  fail  of  succeeding,  and  the 
British  officers  spoke  of  that  campaign  as  of  a  party  of 
pleasure,  in  which  there  was  to  be  neither  difficulty  nor 
danger.  It  is  even  asserted,  (though  I  will  not  vouch 
for  the  truth  of  the  assertion)  that  the  prime  minister  of 
Great  Britain,  lord  Castlereagh,  being  at  Paris  when 
the  news  of  the  capture  of  Washington  arrived  there, 
boasted  publicly  that  New  Orleans  and  Louisiana  would 
soon  be  in  the  power  of  his  countrymen.*  Yet  this 
formidable  expedition  had  already  sailed  from  Europe 
when  its  precise  object  and  destination  were  not  known 
in  America.  It  will  be  seen,  in  the  course  of  this  me 
moir,  that  about  the  beginning  of  December,  the  great 
est  part  of  the  British  force  had  arrived  on  our  coast, 
when  general  Jackson  had  hardly  sufficient  time  to 
make  the  first  preparations  for  defence.  Without  fear 
ing  to  be  accused  of  flattery,  we  may  justly  call  him 
(under  God)  the  saviour  of  Louisiana:  for,  in  the  space 
of  a  few  clays,  with  discordant  and  heterogeneous  ele 
ments,  he  created  and  organized  the  little  army  which 
succeeded  so  well  in  humbling  the  British  pride.  It  is 
true,  that  the  love  of  country,  the  hatred  of  England, 
the  desire  of  avenging  the  outrages  which  we  had  suf 
fered  from  that  haughty  power,  fired  every  heart; — but 
all  this  would  have  availed  nothing  without  the  energy 
of  the  commander-in-chief:  which  will  appear  so  much 

*  Niles's  Historical  Register,  vol.  vii.  p.  389. 


PREFACE.  XV11 

the  more  extraordinary,  when  it  is  considered  that  he 
was  constantly  sick  during  this  memorable  campaign, 
so  much  so  that  he  was  on  the  point  of  being  obliged 
to  resign  his  command.  Although  his  body  was  ready 
to  sink  under  the  weight  of  sickness,  fatigue,  and  con 
tinual  watching,  his  mind,  nevertheless,  never  lost  for  a 
moment  that  energy  which  he  knew  so  well  how  to 
communicate  to  all  that  surrounded  him.  To  obstacles, 
which  to  others  would  have  appeared  insurmountable — 
to  the  want  of  the  most  indispensable  supplies  for  the 
army,  he  opposed  the  most  constant  perseverance,  until 
he  succeeded  either  in  obtaining  what  was  required,  or 
in  creating  supplementary  resources. 

I  have  already  said,  that  the  energy  manifested  by 
general  Jackson  spread,  as  it  were,  by  contagion,  and 
communicated  itself  to  the  whole  army.  I  shall  add, 
that  there  was  nothing  which  those  who  composed  it 
did  not  feel  themselves  capable  of  performing,  if  he  or 
dered  it  to  be  done;  it  was  enough  that  he  expressed  a 
wish,  or  threw  out  the  slightest  intimation,  and  imme 
diately  a  crowd  of  volunteers  offered  themselves  to  carry 
his  views  into  execution.  Such  perfect  harmony — so 
entire  and  reciprocal  a  confidence  between  the  troops 
and  their  commander,  could  not  fail  to  produce  the  hap 
piest  effects.  Therefore,  although  our  army  was,  as  I 
have  already  observed,  composed  of  heterogeneous  ele 
ments,  of  men  speaking  different  languages,  and  brought 


XV111  PREFACE. 

up  in  different  habits,  the  most  perfect  union  and  har 
mony  never  ceased  for  a  moment  to  prevail  in  our  camp. 
No  one  can  better  than  myself  bear  testimony  to  the 
good  understanding  that  reigned  among  our  troops.    In 
the  course  of  the  labours  at  the  fortifications,  which 
were  erected  under  my  direction,  I  had  occasion  to  em 
ploy  soldiers  in  fatigue  duty,  who  were  drafted  by  de 
tachments  from  each  of  the  several  corps.     These  men 
were  kept  hard  at  work  even  to  the  middle  of  the  night, 
and  by  that  means  lost  the  little  portion  of  sleep  which 
they  could  have  snatched  in  the  interval  of  their  mili 
tary  duties.    I  was  almost  constantly  with  them,  su 
perintending  their  labours;  but  I  may  truly  say,  that  I 
never  heard  among  them  the  least  murmur  of  discon 
tent,  nor  saw  the  least  sign  of  impatience.     Nay,  more, 
four-fifths  of  our  army  were  composed  of  militia-men 
or  volunteers,  who,  it  might  be  supposed,   would  with 
difficulty  have  submitted  to  the  severe  discipline  of  a 
camp,  and  of  course  would  often  have  incurred  punish 
ment;  yet  nothing  of  the  kind  took  place;  and  I  solemn 
ly  declare,  that  not  the  smallest  military  punishment 
was  inflicted.  This  is  a  fact  respecting  which  I  defy  con 
tradiction  in  the  most  formal  manner.  What,  then,  was 
the  cause  of  this  miracle?    The  love  of  country,  the 
love  of  liberty.    It  was  the  consciousness  of  the  dignity 
of  man — it  was  the  noblest  of  feelings,  which  pervaded 
and  fired  the  souls  of  our  defenders — which  made  them 


PREFACE.  *xix 

bear  patiently  with  their  sufferings,  because  the  country 
required  it  of  them.  They  felt  that  they  ought  to  resist 
an  enemy  who  had  come  to  invade  and  to  subdue  their 
country; — they  knew  that  their  wives,  their  children, 
their  nearest  and  dearest  friends  were  but  a  few  miles 
behind  their  encampment,  who,  but  for  their  exertions, 
would  inevitably  become  the  victims  and  the  prey  of 
a  licentious  soldiery.  A  noble  city  and  a  rich  territory 
looked  up  to  them  for  protection;  those  whom  their  con 
duct  was  to  save  or  devote  to  perdition,  were  in  sight, 
extending  to  them  their  supplicating  hands.  Here  was  a 
scene  to  elicit  the  most  latent  sparks  of  courage.  What 
wonder,  then,  that  it  had  so  powerful  an  effect  on  the 
minds  of  American  soldiers — of  Louisianian  patriots! 
Every  one  of  those  brave  men  felt  the  honour  and  im 
portance  of  his  station,  and  exulted  in  the  thought  of 
being  the  defender  of  his  fellow  citizens,  and  the 
avenger  of  his  country's  wrongs.  Such  are  the  men 
who  will  always  be  found,  by  those  who  may  again  pre 
sume  to  insult  a  free  nation,  determined  to  maintain  and 
preserve  her  rights. 

I  have  in  this  work  endeavoured  to  relate  in  de 
tail,  with  the  utmost  exactness  and  precision,  the  prin 
cipal  events  which  took  place  in  the  course  of  this  cam 
paign.  1  have  related  facts  as  I  myself  saw  them,  or  as 
they  were  told  me  by  credible  eye-witnesses.  I  do  not 
believe,  that  through  the  whole  of  this  narrative  I  have 


XX  PREFACE. 

swerved  from  the  truth  in  a  single  instance;  if,  how 
ever,  by  one  of  those  unavoidable  mistakes  to  which 
every  man  is  subject,  I  have  involuntarily  mis-stated,  or 
omitted  to  state,  any  material  circumstance,  I  shall  be 
ready  to  acknowledge  my  error  whenever  it  shall  be 
pointed  out  to  me.  I  therefore  invite  those  of  my  rea 
ders,  who  may  observe  any  error  in  my  narrative,  to 
be  so  good  as  to  inform  me  of  it,  that  I  may  correct  it 
in  a  subsequent  edition. 

Although  several  documents  contained  in  the  Ap 
pendix  have  been  already  published,  I  have  nevertheless 
thought  proper  to  insert  them  as  necessary  parts  of  the 
whole,  and  as  the  vouchers  of  the  facts  which  I  have 
related.  I  might,  indeed,  have  reduced  some  of  them 
to  the  form  of  an  extract,  but  they  would  thereby  have 
lost  something  of  their  original  character.  Some  might, 
perhaps,  have  doubted  their  authenticity.  I  therefore 
preferred  giving  them  entire. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR 


OF  THE 


WAR  IN  WEST  FLORIDA  AND  LOUISIANA, 


INTRODUCTION. 

THE  abdication  of  the  emperor  of  the  French, 
and  the  temporary  pacification  of  Europe,  consequent 
on  that  event,  enabled  Great  Britain  to  dispose  of  the 
numerous  forces  which  she  had  till  then  employed 
against  France.  The  British  cabinet  resolved  that 
the  war  against  the  United  States  should  be  vigor 
ously  prosecuted.  The  British  presses  were  set  to 
work,  in  order  to  prepare  the  mind  of  the  nation,  and 
give  it  a  bias  favourable  to  the  views  of  the  govern 
ment.  The  same  journals  which  for  several  years 
had  been  filled  with  invectives  against  the  emperor 
Napoleon,  now  began  to  vilify  the  chief  magistrate  of 
the  United  States.  The  artifices  so  long  employed 
to  alienate  the  French  nation  from  her  chief,  were 
now  resorted  to  against  Mr.  Madison.  The  friends3 
or  rather  the  agents  of  Britain,  in  the  United  States, 
repeated  the  same  calumnies,  invented  the  same  fic 
tions,  advanced  the  same  specious  falsehoods,  to  de 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 


stroy  the  President's  popularity,  and  incite  the  nation 
to  an  insurrection  against  the  government,  which,  ac 
cording  to  British  writers  and  emissaries,  had  drawn 
her  into  an  impolitic,  unjust,  parricidal  and  sacrilegi 
ous  war.  It  was,  they  maintained,  become  necessary  to 
punish  the  inhabitants  of  the  United  States,  for  having 
preferred  a  free  government,  of  their  own  choice,  to 
that  of  a  British  king:  nay,  the  United  States  must  be 
reduced  to  their  original  colonial  subjection,  as  a  chas 
tisement  for  their  having  dared  to  declare  war  against 
Great  Britain,  rather  than  suffer  the  lives  and  fortunes 
of  their  citizens  to  be  forcibly  employed  in  support  of 
the  British  flag;  and  for  their  having  presumed  to  op 
pose  those  pretended  maritime  rights,  to  which  all  the 
governments  of  Europe  had  thought  proper  to  submit. 
The  ministerial  papers  denounced  the  Americansas 
rebels,  the  devoted  objects  of  vengeance.  British  pub 
lications  now  breathed  the  same  rage  as  at  the  period 
of  the  declaration  of  our  independence;  and  the  minis 
terial  writers  had  recourse  to  the  grossest  scurrilities 
in  their  endeavours  to  vilify  our  government.  As  they 
pretended  that  it  was  not  against  France  that  they  had 
waged  so  long  a  war,  but  against  the  chief  who  pre 
sided  over  her  councils;  so  now  they  affected  to  pro 
claim  that  their  hostilities  were  not  directed  against 
the  people  of  the  United  States,   nor  against   the 
American  nation,  but  merely  against  the  leader  of  a 
dominant  faction.     It  was  to  restore  to  our  nation  the 
enjoyment  of  prosperity,  that  they  were  determined 
to  overturn  our  government!     It  was  obvious  that 
the  cessation  of  hostilities  in  Europe,  would  afford 
Britain  the  means  of  executing  a  part  of  her  threats; 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

and  reflecting  men  considered  the  fall  of  the  emperor 
of  the  French  (so  long  wished  for  by  the  friends  of 
Britain)  as  a  sure  presage  that  we  should  soon  have  to 
contend  with  a  formidable  British  force  by  sea  and 
land;  nor  was  it  long  before  these  apprehensions  were 
realized. 

On  the  frontiers  of  Canada,  the  British  had  hither 
to  conducted  the  war  with  much  dexterity  and  in 
trigue,  but  without  any  considerable  number  of  troops. 
The  courage  of  our  soldiers  could  not  remedy  the 
faults  of  our  generals,  and  the  two  first  campaigns 
produced  nothing  more  than  some  brilliant  exploits, 
some  particular  instances  of  bravery,  that  could  have 
no  influence  on  great  military  operations.  Courage 
without  military  tactics,  an  ill-disciplined  army  con 
ducted  without  any  fixed  plan,  with  a  defective  sys 
tem  of  organization,  were  the  means  with  which  we 
long  opposed  the  British  troops;  and  it  may  be  truly 
said  that  the  two  first  campaigns  in  Canada  were  con 
sumed  in  a  war  of  observation,  and  in  the  taking  and 
retaking  of  a  few  posts.  The  British,  by  all  possible 
means  of  seduction,  had  stirred  up  against  us  a  great 
number  of  Indians  on  the  north-western  confines  of 
the  United  States,  and  excited  them  to  commit  depre 
dations  on  our  frontiers,  and  massacre  our  citizens. 
History  cannot  record  all  the  atrocities  committed 
by  those  allies  of  Great  Britain,  some  of  which  are 
of  such  a  description  that  the  most  credulous  would 
disbelieve  them,  were  not  the  facts  supported  by  the 
most  creditable  witnesses  and  the  most  authentic 
proofs. 


\ 


*  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

Experience  at  last  opened  the  eyes  of  our  go 
vernment,  and  more  numerous  armies,  under  able 
and  faithful  officers,  were  sent  into  Canada,  to  carry  on 
the  war  more  effectually.  It  is  foreign  from  the  de 
sign  of  this  work,  to  enter  into  any  discussion  on  that 
subject;  and  I  will  merely  observe  that  it  was  in  some 
measure  owing  to  a  defect  in  the  law  then  in  force 
for  calling  out  the  militia,  that  our  military  operations 
in  Canada,  during  the  two  first  campaigns,  were  at 
tended  with  so  little  success.  I  allude  to  the  law 
which  called  out  certain  portions  of  the  militia  for  six 
months  only,  at  the  expiration  of  which  term  the 
men  were  allowed  to  return  home.  Independent 
ly  of  the  time  necessary  to  repair  from  the  middle 
states  to  the  frontiers  of  Canada,  or  to  Louisiana, 
six  months  are  hardly  sufficient  to  train  a  soldier 
to  military  discipline  and  evolutions,  so  as  to  ren 
der  him  fit  to  contend  in  the  field  against  veteran 
troops.  A  subsequent  law  has,  indeed,  partly  re 
medied  this  evil,  by  prolonging  the  time  of  ser 
vice  to  twelve  months;  but  even  this  term  would  pro 
bably  be  insufficient,  had  we  to  carry  on  a  war  with 
vigour. 

The  arrival  of  reinforcements  to  the  British  army 
in  Canada,  was  the  prelude  to  more  extensive  opera 
tions.  The  taking  of  Washington,  and  the  several 
attacks  made  on  different  points  of  the  Chesapeake, 
sufficiently  evinced  the  intention  of  the  British  go 
vernment,  to  endeavour  to  execute  the  threats  de 
nounced  against  us  through  their  newspapers.  The 
burning  of  Havre-de-Grace,  the  excesses  committed 
at  Hampton,  and  at  Frenchtown,  enabled  us  to  form  :* 


HISTORICAL    MEMOIR.  5 

just  idea  of  the  men  who  professed  the  intention  of 
delivering  us  from  a  "  government  ridiculously  despo 
tic,"  and  who  in  the  meantime  insulted  our  wives  and 
daughters,  destroyed  or  plundered  our  property,  and 
indiscriminately  set  fire  to  humble  cottages  and  state 
ly  palaces.  The  capitol  itself,  that  noble  monument 
that  might  have  commanded  respect  even  from  bar 
barians,  became  a  prey  to  the  flames;  and  that  we 
should  not  remain  in  doubt  as  to  the  fate  we  were 
to  expect,  the  commander  of  the  British  naval  forces, 
in  an  official  communication  to  the  secretary  of 
state,  explicitly  avowed  his  determination  to  continue 
the  same  system  of  inhuman  warfare,  and  to  lay  waste 
and  destroy  the  American  coast,  wherever  assaila 
ble.*  From  that  moment  all  eyes  were  opened;  the 
cry  of  indignation  was  heard  from  one  extremity  of 
the  union  to  the  other,  and  all  minds  were  now  bent 
on  an  obstinate  and  determined  resistance.  It  was 
evident  to  all  that  we  had  no  longer  to  contend  for 
the  precarious  possession  of  an  inconsiderable  extent 
of  country,  but  that  we  were  called  on  to  defend  our 
wives  and  children  from  British  insult  and  brutality; 
eur  fortunes  from  the  rapacity  of  British  invaders,  and 
our  homes  from  pillage,  fire  and  devastation.  Those 
who  had  hitherto  considered  the  war  only  as  an  ho 
nourable  contest  between  two  nations,  mutually  es 
teeming  each  other,  but  set  at  variance  by  conflicting 
interests,  were  now  convinced  that  our  enemies  were 
determined  to  wage  against  us  a  war  of  extermina 
tion,  and  that  we  had  to  repel  a  savage  foe,  who  came 

*  See  admiral  Cochrane's  letter  in  the  Appendix,  No.  1. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

to  cover  our  country  with  mourning  and  desolation, 
The  Halifax  papers  announced  the  embarkation  of 
troops  that  had  composed  part  of  lord  Wellington's 
army.  In  the  list  of  the  regiments  and  of  the  general 
officers,  appear  several  of  the  former  and  of  the  latter 
who  since  came  to  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi.  The 
expedition  against  New  Orleans  was  to  consist  of 
eighteen  thousand  men.  The  same  papers  predicted 
that  the  calamities  of  war  would  be  severely  and 
extensively  felt  by  the  inhabitants  of  the  United 
States. 

From  that  time  it  was  generally  believed  that  the 
British  would  attack  the  southern  states  in  the  ensu 
ing  autumn  or  winter,  and  Louisiana  was  particularly 
pointed  out  as  their  most  probable  object  of  invasion: 
yet  so  ill  does  the  general  government  appear  to  have 
been  served  by  its  agents  in  that  remote  part  of  the 
union,  that  as  late  as  in  the  month  of  September, 
nothing  had  been  done  in  the  way  of  effectual  prepa 
rations,  to  put  that  country  in  a  state  of  defence. 

Louisiana,  which  was  particularly  marked  out  as 
the  principal  point  against  which  was  to  be  directed 
a  formidable  British  force,  with  a  considerable  extent 
of  coast,  numerous  communications  by  water,  and 
with  hardly  any  fortified  points,  open  on  all  sides, 
having  in  its  neighbourhood  a  Spanish  settlement 
freely  admitting  the  enemy's  ships,  and  a  great  pro 
portion  of  whose  population  was  disposed  to  aid  him, 
had  no  force  on  which  to  rely  for  the  defence  of  her 
shores,  except  six  gun- boats  and  a  sloop  of  war. 
From  the  gallant  defence  made  by  the  brave  crews  of 
these  vessels,  we  may  judge  what  would  have  been 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  7 

effected  by  a  number  proportionate  to  the  extent  of 
coast  to  be  defended.  Fort  Plaquemmes,  that  of 
Petites  Coquilles,  and  fort  Bowyer  at  Mobile  point, 
were  the  only  advanced  points  fortified;  and  none 
of  them  capable  of  standing  a  regular  siege. 

It  may  now  be  made  known,  without  any  other 
danger  than  that  of  its  appearing  incredible,  that  Lou 
isiana,  whose  coasts  are  accessible  to  such  flat-bot 
tomed  vessels  as  are  used  in  conveying  mortars,  had 
but  two  of  these  engines  which  belonged  to  the 
navy,  and  which  were  landed  from  bomb-ketches 
that  had  been  condemned.  Nor  is  this  all:  there 
were  not  a  hundred  bombs  of  the  calibre  of  those 
mortars;  nor,  indeed,  could  much  advantage  be  deri 
ved  from  them,  however  well  served  or  supplied. 
Professional  men  will  understand,  that  from  the  con 
struction  of  their  carriages,  they  were  only  fit  to  be 
mounted  on  board  of  vessels,  and  by  no  means  calcu 
lated  for  land  batteries. 

i 

The  fort  of  Petites  Coquilles  was  not  finished  at 
the  time  of  the  invasion,  nor  was  it  in  a  condition  to 
make  an  ordinary  resistance.  As  to  fort  Bowyer,  at 
Mobile  point,  it  will  appear  from  the  particular  ac 
count  given  in  this  work  of  the  two  attacks  it  sustain 
ed,  that  the  brave  garrison  defending  it  did  all  that 
could  be  reasonably  expected  from  its  local  situation 
and  means  of  resistance.  Such  was  the  inconsidera 
ble  defence  that  protected  the  shores  of  Louisiana, 
and  covered  a  country  that  has  an  extent  of  coast  of 
upwards  of  six  hundred  miles,  and  of  which  even  a 
temporary  possession  by  an  enemy  might  be  attend 


8  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

ed  with  conseauences  baneful  to  the  future  prosperity 
of  the  western  states.       The   general    government 
might  and  ought  to   have   been  well   informed    of 
the  vulnerable  points  of  Louisiana.     Accurate  maps 
of  the  country  on  a  large  scale  had  been  made,   by 
the  engineer  B.  Lafon  and  myself,  and  delivered  to 
brigadier- general  Wilkinson,  who,  it  is  presumable, 
did  not  fail  to  forward  them  to  the  secretary  of  war. 
That  part  of  the  state,  in  particular,  by  which  the 
enemy  penetrated,  was  there  laid  down,  and  in  1813 
brigadier-general  Flournoy  ordered  major  Lafon,  then 
chief  engineer  of  the  district,  to  draw  up  an  exact 
account  of  all  the  points  to  be  fortified  for  the  general 
defence  of  Louisiana.     The  draughts,  which  were 
numerous,  and  formed  an  atlas,   were  accompanied 
with  very  particular  explanatory  notes.     That  work, 
which  reflects  great  credit  on  its  author,  pointed  out 
in  the  most  precise  and  clear  manner  what  was  expe 
dient  to  be  done,  in   order  to  put  the  country  in  a 
state  of  security  against  all  surprise.     I  have  always 
understood  that  those  draughts  were  ordered  and  ex 
ecuted  for  the  purpose  of  being  sent  to  the  then  se 
cretary  of  war,  to  enable  the  gov  ernment  to  determine 
in  their  wisdom  the  points  proper  to  be  fortified.     To 
what   fatality  then  was   it   owing,   that   Louisiana, 
whose  means  of  defence  were  so  inadequate;    which 
had  but  a  scanty  white  population,  composed,  in  a 
great  proportion,  of  foreigners  speaking  various  lan 
guages;  so  remote  from  any  succours,  though  one  of 
the  keys  of  the  union — was  so  long  left  without  the 
means  of  resisting  the  enemy?     I  shall  be  told  that  to 
fortify  the  coast  in  time  of  peace,  were  to  incur  an 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  9 

unnecessary  expense.  This  position  I  by  no  means 
admit;  but  I  further  observe  that  the  war  had  already 
existed  two  years;  and  we  ought  to  have  presumed, 
had  positive  proof  been  wanting,  that  the  British, 
having  numerous  fleets,  and  every  means  of  trans 
porting  troops  to  all  points  of  the  coast  of  the  United 
States,  would  not  fail  to  make  an  attempt  against 
Louisiana; — a  country  which  already  by  its  prodigi 
ous  and  unexampled  progress  in  the  culture  of  sugar, 
was  become  a  dangerous  rival  to  the  British  colonies. 
The  city  of  New  Orleans  contained  produce  to  a 
vast  amount.  The  cotton  crops  of  the  state  of  Lou 
isiana  and  the  Mississippi  territory,  accumulated  du 
ring  several  years,  were  stored  in  that  city,  surround 
ed  with  considerable  plantations,  having  numerous 
gangs  of  slaves.  It  was,  in  a  word,  the  emporium 
of  the  produce  of  a  great  portion  of  the  western 
states.  The  Mississippi  on  which  it  lies,  receives 
the  streams  that  water  upwards  of  a  million  of  square 
miles,  and  wafts  to  New  Orleans  the  annually  in 
creasing  productions  of  their  fertile  banks. — It  is  by 
the  Mississippi  and  the  rivers  emptying  into  it,  that 
the  communication  is  kept  up  between  the  western 
and  northern  states.— -And  by  the  Mississippi  and 
the  Missouri,  there  will,  at  no  distant  period,  be  car 
ried  on,  without  difficulty,  or  with  very  little  obstruc 
tion,  the  most  extensive  inland  navigation  on  the 
globe. 

All  these  advantages  were  calculated  to  excite 
the  cupidity  of  the  British,  and  inspire  them  with  the 
desire  of  getting  possession  of  a  country  which,  be 
sides  its  territorial  wealth,  insured  to  whoever  might 


10  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

hold  it,  an  immediate  control  over  the  western  states. 
In  possessing  themselves  of  Louisiana,  the  least  fa 
vourable  prospect  of  the  enemy  was  the  plunder  of  a 
very  considerable  quantity  of  produce,  the  destruction 
of  a  city  destined  to  become  commercial,  and  opu 
lent  in  the  highest  degree,  and  the  ruin  of  numerous 
plantations  which  must  one  day  rival  in  their  pro 
ductions,  those  of  the  finest  colonies  of  European 
nations.  Their  other  prospects,  less  certain  indeed, 
but  in  which  they  were  not  a  little  sanguine,  were 
the  separation  of  the  western  states  from  the  rest  of 
the  union;  the  possibility  of  transferring  the  theatre 
of  war  to  the  westward,  by  the  possession  of  the 
Mississippi,  and  effecting  a  junction  with  their  army 
in  Canada;  and  lastly,  being  masters  of  Louisiana,  to 
import  by  the  river  their  various  manufactures,  and 
secure  to  themselves  the  monopoly  of  the  fur  trade. 
Let  us  now  see  in  what  manner  the  British  began 
to  execute  their  hostile  designs  against  Louisiana:  In 
the  course  of  the  summer  of  1814,  the  brig  Orpheus 
had  landed  arms  and  officers  in  the  bay  of  Apalachi- 
cola,  and  entered  into  arrangements  with  the  Creeks, 
to  act  against  fort  Bowyer  at  Mobile  point,  justly 
looked  upon  as  a  place  the  possession  of  which  was 
of  the  greatest  importance  towards  the  execution  of 
the  grand  operations  projected  against  Louisiana. 
The  British  officers  diligently  executed  the  object  of 
their  instructions,  and  had  completely  succeeded  in 
rallying  under  their  standard  all  the  tribes  of  Indians 
living  to  the  east  of  the  Chactaws,  when  an  expedi 
tion  of  some  troops,  on  board  the  sloops  of  war 
Hermes  and  Caron,  sailed  from  Bermuda  under  the 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  11 

command  of  colonel  Nicholls,  of  the  artillery,  an  en 
terprising,  active,  and  brave  officer,  and  on  the  4th  of 
August  touched  at  the  Havanna,  in  hopes  of  obtain 
ing  the  co-operation  of  the  Spanish  governor,  the  as 
sistance  of  some  gun-boats  and  small  vessels,  with 
permission  to  land  their  troops  and  artillery  at  Pen- 
sacola.  On  the  refusal  of  the  captain-general,  they 
sailed  for  Pensacola,  determined  to  land  there;  al 
though  the  captain-general  had  positively  refused  to 
grant  them  permission.  (See  Appendix,  No.  2.) 

Colonel  Nicholls  accordingly  landed  at  Pensacola, 
where  he  established  his  head-quarters,  and  enlisted 
and  publicly  drilled  Indians,  who  wore  the  British 
uniform  in  the  streets. 

The  object  of  that  inconsiderable  expedition  ap 
pears  to  have  been  to  sound  the  disposition  of  the  in- 
habitants  of  die  Floridas  and  Louisiana;  to  procure 
the  information  necessary  for  more  important  opera 
tions,  and  to  secure  pilots  to  conduct  the  expedition 
on  our  coast  and  in  our  waters,  rather  than  to  attempt 
any  thing  of  importance. 

Colonel  Nicholls  directed  captain  Lockyer  of  the 
brig  Sophia,  to  convey  an  officer  to  Barataria  with  a 
packet  for  Mr.  Lafitte,  or  whoever  else  might  be  at 
the  head  of  the  privateers  on  Grande  Terre. 

To  give  a  correct  idea  of  that  establishment  at 
Barataria,  of  which  so  much  has  been  said,  it  is  ne 
cessary  to  enter  into  some  details,  by  a  digression 
which  will  naturally  bring  us  back  to  our  subject. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 


BARATARIA. 

AT  the  period  of  the  taking  of  Guadaloupe  by  the 
British,  most  of  the  privateers  commissioned  by  the 
government  of  that  island,  and  which  were  then  on 
4  cruise,  not  being  able  to  return  to  any  of  the  West- 
India  islands,  made  for  Barataria,  there  to  take  in  a 
supply  of  water  and  provisions,  recruit  the  health  of 
their  crews,  and  dispose  of  their  prizes,  which  could 
not  be  admitted  into  any  of  the  ports  of  the  United 
States;  we  being  at  that  time  in  peace  with  Great  Bri 
tain.  Most  of  the  commissions  granted  to  privateers 
by  the  French  government  at  Guadaloupe,  having  ex 
pired  some  time  after  the  declaration  of  the  inde 
pendence  of  Carthagena,  many  of  the  privateers  re 
paired  to  that  port,  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining  from 
the  new  government,  commissions  for  cruising  against 
Spanish  vessels.  They  were  all  received  by  the 
people  of  Carthagena  with  the  enthusiasm  which  is 
ever  observed  in  a  country  that  for  the  iirst  time 
shakes  off  the  yoke  of  subjection;  and  indeed  a  con 
siderable  number  of  men,  accustomed  to  great  politi 
cal  convulsions,  inured  to  the  fatigues  of  war,  and 
who  by  their  numerous  cruises  in  the  gulf  of  Mexi 
co  and  about  the  West- India  islands,  had  become 
well  acquainted  with  all  those  coasts,  and  possessed 
the  most  effectual  means  of  annoying  the  royalists, 
could  not  fail  to  be  considered  as  an  acquisition  to 
the  new  republic. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  13 

Having  duly  obtained  their  commissions,  they  in 
a  manner  blockaded  for  a  long  time  all  the  ports  be 
longing  to  the  royalists,  and  made  numerous  cap 
tures,  which  they  carried  into  Barataria.  Under  this 
denomination  is  comprised  part  of  the  coast  of  Loui 
siana  to  the  west  of  the  mouths  of  the  Mississippi, 
comprehended  between  Bastien  bay  on  the  east,  and 
the  mouths  of  the  river  or  bayou  la  Fourche  on 
the  west.  Not  far  from  the  sea  are  lakes  called  the 
great,  the  small,  and  the  larger  lake  of  Barataria,  com 
municating  with  one  another  by  several  large  bayous 
with  a  great  number  of  branches.  There  is  also  the 
island  of  Barataria,  at  the  extremity  of  which  is  a  place 
called  the  Temple,  which  denomination  it  owes  to 
several  mounds  of  shells  thrown  up  there  by  the  Indi 
ans,  long  before  the  settlement  of  Louisiana,  and  which 
from  the  great  quantity  of  human  bones,  are  evident 
ly  funereal  and  religious  monuments. 

The  island  is  formed  by  the  great  and  the  small 
lakes  of  Barataria,  the  bayou  Pierrot,  and  the  bayou 
or  river  of  Ouatchas,  more  generally  known  by  the 
name  of  bayou  of  Barataria;  and  finally  the  same  de 
nomination  is  given  to  a  large  basin  which  extends 
the  whole  length  of  the  Cypress  swamps,  lakes,  prai 
ries  and  bayous  behind  the  plantations  on  the  right 
bank  of  the  river,  three  miles  above  New  Orleans,  as 
far  as  the  gulf  of  Mexico,  being  about  sixty  miles  in 
length  and  thirty  in  breadth,  bounded  on  the  west  by 
the  highlands  of  la  Fourche,  and  on  the  east  by  those 
of  the  right  bank  of  the  Mississippi.  These  waters 
disembogue  into  the  gulf  by  two  entrances  of  the 
lake  or  rather  the  bayou  Barataria,  between  which 


14  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

lies  an  island  called  Grande  Terre,  six  miles  in  length 
and  from  two  to  three  miles  in  breadth,  running  pa 
rallel  with  the  coast.  In  the  western  entrance  is  the 
great  pass  of  Barataria,  which  has  from  nine  to  ten 
feet  of  water.  Within  this  pass,  about  two  leagues 
from  the  open  sea,  lies  the  only  secure  harbour  on  all 
that  coast,  and  accordingly  this  is  the  harbour  fre 
quented  by  the  privateers,  so  well  known  by  the 
name  of  Baratarians.*  Social  order  has  indeed  to  re 
gret  that  those  men,  mostly  aliens,  and  cruising  un 
der  a  foreign  flag,  so  audaciously  infringed  our  laws 
as  openly  to  make  sale  of  their  goods  on  our  soil; 
but  what  is  much  more  deplorable  and  equally  as 
tonishing  is,  that  the  agents  of  government  in  this 
country  so  long  tolerated  such  violation  of  our  laws, 
or  at  least  delayed  for  four  years  to  take  effectual 
measures  to  put  a  stop  to  these  lawless  practices. 
It  cannot  be  pretended  that  the  country  was  desti 
tute  of  the  means  necessary  to  repress  these  outrages. 
The  troops  stationed  at  New  Orleans  were  sufficient 
for  that  purpose,  and  it  cannot  be  doubted  but  that 
a  well  conducted  expedition  would  have  cleared  our 
waters  of  the  privateers,  and  a  proper  garrison  sta 
tioned  at  the  place  they  made  their  harbour,  would  have 
prevented  their  return.  The  species  of  impunity  with 
which  they  were  apparently  indulged,  inasmuch  as  no 
rigorous  measures  were  resorted  to  against  them,  made 
the  contraband  trade  carried  on  at  Barataria,  be  con 
sidered  as  tacitly  tolerated.  In  a  word,  it  is  a  fact 
no  less  true  than  painful  for  me  to  assert,  that  at 
Grande  Terre,  the  privateers  publicly  made  sale,  by 

*  See  plate  No.  1,  In  the  Atlas, 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  15 

auction,  of  the  cargoes  of  their  prizes.  From  all 
parts  of  Lower  Louisiana  people  resorted  to  Barataria, 
without  being  at  all  solicitous  to  conceal  the  object 
of  their  journey.  In  the  streets  of  New  Orleans  it 
was  usual  for  traders  to  give  and  receive  orders  for 
purchasing  goods  at  Barataria,  with  as  little  secrecy 
as  similar  orders  are  given  for  Philadelphia  or  New- 
York.  The  most  respectable  inhabitants  of  the  state, 
especially  those  living  in  the  country,  were  in  the 
habit  of  purchasing  smuggled  goods  coming  from 
Barataria.  The  frequent  seizures  made  of  those 
goods,  were  but  an  ineffectual  remedy  of  the  evil,  as 
the  great  profit  yielded  by  such  parcels  as  escaped 
the  vigilance  of  the  custom-house  officers,  indemni 
fied  the  traders  for  the  loss  of  what  they  had  paid  for 
the  goods  seized;  their  price  being  always  very  mode 
rate,  by  reason  of  the  quantity  of  prizes  brought  in, 
and  of  the  impatience  of  the  captors  to  turn  them 
into  money,  and  sail  on  a  new  cruise.  This  traffic 
was  at  length  carried  on  with  such  scandalous  noto 
riety,  that  the  agents  of  government  incurred  very 
general  and  open  reprehension,  many  persons  con 
tending  that  they  had  interested  motives  for  conniv 
ing  at  such  abuses,  as  smuggling  was  a  source  of 
confiscation,  from  which  they  derived  considerable 
benefit. 

It  has  been  repeatedly  asserted  in  the  public  prints 
throughout  the  union,  that  most  of  those  privateers 
had  no  commissions,  and  were  really  pirates.  This 
I  believe  to  be  a  calumny,  as  I  am  persuaded  they 
all  had  commissions  either  from  Carthagena  or  from 
France,  of  the  validity  of  which  it  would  seem  the 


16  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

government  of  those  respective  countries  were  alone 
competent  judges. 

The  privateers  of  Barataria  committed  indeed  a 
great  offence  against  the  laws  of  the  United  States 
in  smuggling  into  their  territory  goods  captured  from 
nations  with  which  we  were  at  peace;  and  for  this 
offence  they  justly  deserved  to  be  punished.  But 
in  addition  to  this  acknowledged  guilt,  to  charge  them 
with  the  crime  of  piracy,  when  on  the  strictest  inquiry 
no  proof  whatsoever  of  any  act  amounting  to  this 
species  of  criminality  has  been  discovered,  and  though 
since  the  pardon  granted  to  them  by  the  president  of 
the  United  States,  they  have  shown  their  papers  and 
the  exact  list  of  the  vessels  captured  by  them,  to  eve 
ry  one  who  chose  to  see  them,  seems  evidently  un 
just.  Without  wishing  to  extenuate  their  real  crime, 
that  of  having  for  four  years  carried  on  an  illicit  trade, 
I  again  assert  that  the  agents  of  government  justly 
merit  the  reproach  of  having  neglected  their  duty. 
The  government  must  surely  have  been  aware  of  the 
pernicious  consequences  of  this  contraband  trade;  and 
they  had  the  means  of  putting  a  stop  to  it.  It  is  true 
that  partial  expeditions  had  been  fitted  out  for  that 
purpose;  but  whether  through  want  of  judgment  in  the 
plan,  or  through  the  fault  of  the  persons  command 
ing  those  expeditions,  they  answered  no  other  purpose 
than  to  suspend  this  contraband  trade  in  one  part,  by 
making  it  take  a  more  western  direction.  Cat  island, 
at  the  mouth  of  the  bayou  or  river  la  Fourche, 
became  the  temporary  harbour  of  the  privateers, 
whose  vessels  were  too  well  armed  to  apprehend  an 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  If 

attack  from  land  troops  in  ordinary  transports.  Hence 
the  troops  stationed  at  Grande  Terre,  la  Fourche,  &c. 
could  do  no  more  than  prevent  the  continuance  of 
the  illegal  trade,  while  they  were  on  the  spot;  but  on 
their  departure,  the  Baratarians  immediately  return 
ed  to  their  former  station. 

There  have  been  those  who  pretended  that  the  pri 
vateers  of  Barataria  were  secretly  encouraged  by  the 
English,  who  were  glad  to  see  a  commerce  carried  on 
that  must  prove  so  injurious  to  the  revenue  of  the  Uni 
ted  States.  But  this  charge  is  fully  refuted  by  this  fact, 
that  at  different  times  the  English  sought  to  attack 
the  privateers  at  Barataria,  in  hopes  of  taking  their 
prizes,  and  even  their  armed  vessels.  Of  these  at 
tempts  of  the  British,  suffice  it  to  instance  that  of  the 
23d  of  June,  1813,  when  two  privateers  being  at  an 
chor  oft  Cat  island,  a  British  sloop  of  war  anchored  at 
the  entrance  of  the  pass,  and  sent  her  boats  to  en 
deavour  to  take  the  privateers;  but  they  were  repuls 
ed  after  having  sustained  considerable  loss. 

Such  was  the  state  of  affairs  when  on  the  2d  of 
September  1814,  there  appeared  an  armed  brig  on  the 
coast  opposite  the  pass.  She  fired  a  gun  at  a  vessel 
about  to  enter  and  forced  her  to  run  aground;  she 
then  tacked  and  shortly  after  came  to  an  anchor  at 
the  entrance  of  the  pass.  It  was  not  easy  to  un 
derstand  the  intentions  of  this  vessel,  who  having 
commenced  with  hostilities  on  her  first  appearance, 
now  seemed  to  announce  an  amicable  disposition. 
Mr.  Lafitte,  the  younger,  went  off  in  a  boat  to  ex 
amine  her,  venturing  so  far  that  he  could  not  es- 


18  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

cape  from  the  pinnace  sent  from  the  brig  and  making 
towards  the  shore,  bearing  British  colours  and  a  flag 
of  truce.  In  this  pinnace  were  two  British  naval 
officers,  captain  Lockyer,  commander  of  the  brig, 
and  an  officer  who  interpreted  for  him,  with  captain 
Williams  of  the  infantry.  The  first  question  they 
asked  was,  where  was  Mr.  Lafitte?  He,  not  choos 
ing  to  make  himself  known  to  them,  replied  that  the 
person  they  inquired  for  was  on  shore.  They  then 
delivered  him  a  packet  directed  "To  Mr.  Lafitte — Ba~ 
rataria;"  requesting  him  to  take  particular  care  of  it, 
and  to  deliver  it  into  Mr.  Lafitte's  own  hands.  He  pre 
vailed  on  them  to  make  for  the  shore,  and  as  soon 
as  they  got  near  enough  to  be  in  his  power,  he  made, 
himself  known,  recommending  to  them  at  the  same 
time  to  conceal  the  business  on  which  they  had 
come.  Upwards  of  two  hundred  persons  lined  the 
shore,  and  it  was  a  general  cry  amongst  the  crews  of 
the  privateers  at  Grande  Terre,  that  those  British 
officers  should  be  made  prisoners  and  sent  to  New- 
Orleans,  as  being  spies  who  had  come  under  feigned 
pretences  to  examine  the  coast  and  the  passages, 
with  intent  to  invade  and  ravage  the  country.  It 
was  with  much  difficulty  that  Mr.  Lafitte  succeeded 
in  dissuading  the  multitude  from  this  intent,  and  led 
the  officers  in  safety  to  his  dwelling.  He  thought, 
very  prudently,  that  the  papers  contained  in  the  pack 
et  might  be  of  importance  towards  the  safety  of  the 
country,  and  that  the  officers,  being  closely  watched, 
could  obtain  no  intelligence  that  might  turn  to  the 
detriment  of  Louisiana.  He  took  the  earliest  oppor 
tunity,  after  the  agitation  among  the  crews  had  sub- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

sided,  to  examine  the  contents  of  the  packet;  in 
which  he  found  a  proclamation  addressed  by  colonel 
Edward  Nicholls,  in  the  service  of  his  Britannic  Ma 
jesty  and  commander  of  the  land  forces  on  the  coast 
of  Florida,  to  the  inhabitants  of  Louisiana,  dated  Head" 
quarter 's,  Pensacola,  29th  August,  1814;  a  letter  from 
the  same,  directed  to  Mr.  Lafitte,  or  to  the  com 
mandant  at  Barataria;  an  official  letter  from  the  ho 
nourable  W.  H.  Percy,  captain  of  the  sloop  of  war 
Hermes,  and  commander  of  the  naval  forces  in  the 
gulf  of  Mexico,  dated  September  1st,  1814,  directed 
to  himself;  and  finally,  a  letter  containing  orders  from 
the  same  captain  Percy,  written  on  the  30th  of  Au 
gust  on  board  the  Hermes,  in  the  road  of  Pensacola, 
to  the  same  captain  Lockyer  commanding  the  sloop 
of  war  Sophia.  (For  these  different  papers  see  Ap 
pendix,  No.  3.) 

When  Mr.  Lafitte  had  perused  these  papers,  cap 
tain  Lockyer  enlarged  on  the  subject  of  them,  and 
proposed  to  him  to  enter  into  the  service  of  his  Bri 
tannic  majesty  with  all  those  who  were  under  his 
command,  or  over  whom  he  had  sufficient  influence; 
and  likewise  to  lay  at  the  disposal  of  the  officers  of 
his  Britannic  majesty  the  armed  vessels  he  had  at 
Barataria,  to  aid  in  the  intended  attack  of  the  fort  of 
Mobile.  He  insisted  much  on  the  great  advantages 
that  would  thence  result  to  himself  and  his  crews; 
offered  him  the  rank  of  captain  in  the  British  service, 
and  the  sum  of  thirty  thousand  dollars,  payable,  at  his 
option,  in  Pensacola  or  New  Orleans,  and  urged  him 
not  to  let  slip  this  opportunity  of  acquiring  fortune  and 
consideration.  On  Mr.  Lafitte's  requiring  a  few  days 


20  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

to  reflect  upon  these  proposals,  captain  Lockyer  ob 
served  to  him  that  no  reflection  could  be  necessary,  re 
specting  proposals  that  obviously  precluded  hesitation, 
as  he  was  a  Frenchman,  and  of  course  now  a  friend 
to  Great  Britain,  proscribed  by  the  American  govern 
ment,  exposed  to  infamy,  and  had  a  brother  at  that 
very  time  loaded  with  irons  in  the  jail  of  New-Or 
leans.  He  added,  that  in  the  British  service  he  would 
have  a  fair  prospect  of  promotion;  that  having  such 
a  knowledge  of  the  country,  his  services  would  be 
of  the  greatest  importance  in  carrying  on  the  opera- 
tions  which  the  British  government  had  planned 
against  Lower  Louisiana;  that,  as  soon  as  posses 
sion  was  obtained,  the  army  would  penetrate  into 
the  upper  country,  and  act  in  concert  with  the  forces 
in  Canada;  that  every  thing  was  already  prepared  for 
carrying  on  the  war  against  the  American  govern 
ment  in  that  quarter  with  unusual  vigour;  that  they 
were  nearly  sure  of  success,  expecting  to  find  little 
or  no  opposition  from  the  French  and  Spanish  popu 
lation  of  Louisiana,  whose  interests,  manners  and 
customs  were  more  congenial  with  theirs  than  with 
those  of  the  Americans;  that  finally,  the  insurrection 
of  the  negroes,  to  whom  they  would  offer  freedom, 
was  one  of  the  chief  means  they  intended  to  employ, 
being  confident  of  its  success. 

To  all  these  splendid  promises,  all  these  ensnaring 
insinuations,  Mr.  Lafitte  replied,  that  in  a  few  days  he 
would  give  a  final  answer;  his  object  in  this  procras 
tination  being  to  gain  time  to  inform  the  officers  of 
the  state  government  of  this  nefarious  project.  Hav 
ing  occasion  to  go  to  some  distance  for  a  short  time, 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  21 

the  persons  who  had  proposed  to  send  the  British  offi 
cers  prisoners  to  New-Orleans,  went  and  seized  them 
in  his  absence,  and  confined  both  them  and  the  crew 
of  the  pinnae-.,  in  a  secure  place,  leaving  a  guard  at 
the  door.  The  British  officers  sent  for  Mr.  Lafitte; 
but  he,  fearing  an  insurrection  of  the  crews  of  the  pri 
vateers,  thought  it  advisable  not  to  see  them,  until  he 
had  first  persuaded  their  captains  and  officers  to  desist 
from  the  measures  on  which  they  seemed  bent.  With 
this  view  he  represented  to  the  latter  that,  besides 
the  infamy  that  would  attach  to  them,  if  they  treated 
as  prisoners,  persons  who  had  come  with  a  flag  of 
truce,  they  would  lose  the  opportunity  of  discovering 
the  extent  of  the  projects  of  the  British  against  Lou 
isiana,  and  learning  the  names  of  their  agents  in  the 
country.  While  Mr.  Lafitte  was  thus  endeavour 
ing  to  bring  over  his  people  to  his  sentiments,  the 
British  remained  prisoners  the  whole  night,  the  sloop 
of  war  continuing  at  anchor  before  the  pass,  waiting 
for  the  return  of  the  officers.  Early  the  next  morn 
ing,  Mr.  Lafitte  caused  them  to  be  released  from 
their  confinement,  and  saw  them  safe  aboard  their 
pinnace,  apologizing  for  the  disagreeable  treatment 
they  had  received,  and  which  it  had  not  been  in  his 
power  to  prevent.  Shortly  after  their  departure,  he 
wrote  to  captain  Lockyer  the  letter  that  may  be  seen 
in  the  Appendix,  No.  4. 

His  object  in  writing  that  letter  was,  by  appearing 
disposed  to  accede  to  their  proposal,  to  give  time  to 
communicate  the  affair  to  the  officers  of  the  state  go 
vernment,  and  to  receive  from  them  instructions  how 


22  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

to  act,  under  circumstances  so  critical  and  important 
for  the  country.  He  accordingly  wrote  on  the  4th 
of  September  to  Mr.  Blanque,  one  of  the  representa. 
tives  of  the  state,  sending  him  all  the  papers  deliver 
ed  to  him  by  the  British  officers,  with  a  letter  ad 
dressed  to  his  excellency  W.  C.  C.  Claiborne,  gover- 
norof  the  state  of  Louisiana.  (See  Appendix,  No.  5.) 
The  contents  of  these  letters  do  honour  to  Mr.  La- 
fitte's  judgment,  and  evince  his  sincere  attachment  to 
the  American  cause. 

Persuaded  that  the  country  was  about  to  be  vi 
gorously  attacked,  and  knowing  that  at  that  time  it 
was  little  prepared  for  resistance,  he  did  what  his  duty 
prescribed;  apprising  government  of  the  impending 
danger;  tendering  his  services,  should  it  be  thought 
expedient  to  employ  the   assistance  of  his  crews, 
and  desiring  instructions  how  to  act;  and  in  case  of  his 
offers  being  rejected,  he  declared  his  intention  to  quit 
the  country,  lest  he  should  be  charged  with  having  co 
operated  with  the  invading  enemy.  On  the  receipt  of 
this  packet  from  Mr.  Lafitte,  Mr.  Blanque  immediate 
ly  laid  its  contents  before  the  governor,  who  convened 
the  committee  of  defence  lately  formed,  of  which  he 
was  president;  and  Mr.  Rancher,  the  bearer  of  Mr. 
Lafitte's  packet,  was  sent  back  with  a  verbal  answer, 
of  which  it  is  understood  that  the  purport  was  to  de 
sire  him  to  take  no  steps  until  it  should  be  determin 
ed  what  was  expedient  to  be  done;  it  is  added,  that 
the  message  contained  an  assurance  that,  in  the  mean 
time,  no  steps  should  be  taken  against  him  for  his 
past  offences  against  the  laws  of  the  United  States, 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  23 

At  the  expiration  of  the  time  agreed  on  with  cap 
tain  Lockyer,  his  ship  appeared  again  on  the  coast 
with  two  others,  and  continued  standing  off  and  on 
before  the  pass  for  several  days. 

Mr.  Lafitte  now  wrote  a  second  letter  to  Mr, 
Blanque,  urging  him  to  send  him  an  answer  and 
instructions.  (See  Appendix  No.  6.)  In  the  mean 
time  he  appeared  not  to  perceive  the  return  of  the 
sloop  of  war,  who,  tired  of  waiting  to  no  purpose, 
and  mistrusting  Mr.  Lafitte's  intentions,  put  out  to 
sea  and  disappeared. 

About  this  time,  Mr.  Lafitte  received  informa 
tion  that  instead  of  accepting  his  services,  and  en 
deavouring  to  take  advantage  of  the  confidence  the 
British  had  in  him,  to  secure  the  country  against  an 
invasion,  and  defeat  all  their  projects,  the  constituted 
authorities  were  fitting  out  at  New- Orleans  a  formi 
dable  expedition  against  Barataria.  He  then  retired  to 
the  German  coast,  where,  strictly  adhering  to  the 
principles  he  had  professed,  he  warned  the  inhabit 
ants  of  the  danger  with  which  they  were  threatened 
from  the  means  intended  to  be  employed  by  the 
enemy. 

About  this  time,  there  fell  into  Mr.  Lafitte's  hands 
an  anonymous  letter  directed  to  a  person  in  New- Or 
leans,  the  contents  of  which  left  no  doubt  as  to  the 
intentions  of  the  British,  and  which  is  the  more  in 
teresting,  as  all  that  it  announced  has  since  been  fully- 
verified.  (See  Appendix,  No.  2.) 

Such  are  the  particulars  of  the  first  attempt  made 
by  the  British  against  Louisiana-— an  attempt  in  which 


24  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

they  employed  such  unjustifiable  arts,  that  it  may 
fairly  be  inferred  that  the  British  government  scru 
ples  not  to  descend  to  the  basest  means,  when  such 
appear  likely  to  contribute  to  the  attainment  of  its 
ends.  Notwithstanding  the  solemn  professions  of 
respect  for  the  persons  and  property  of  the  inhabit 
ants,  so  emphatically  made  in  the  proclamation  of 
colonel  Nicholls,  we  see  that  one  of  their  chief 
reliance  for  the  success  of  operations  in  Louisiana, 
was  on  the  insurrection  of  the  negroes.  Is  it  not 
then  evident  from  this,  that  the  British  were  bent  on 
the  destruction  of  a  country  whose  rivalship  they 
feared  in  their  colonial  productions,  and  that  the  ca 
binet  of  St.  James  had  determined  to  carry  on  a 
war  of  plunder  and  devastation  against  Louisiana? 

In  coming  to  Barataria,  to  endeavour  to  gain  over 
the  privateers  to  their  interests,  they  acted  consist 
ently  with  their  known  principles,  and  on  a  calcula 
tion  of  probabilities;  for  it  was  an  obvious  presump 
tion  that  a  body  of  men  proscribed  in  a  country  whose 
laws  they  had  violated,  reflecting  on  their  precarious 
existence,  would  embrace  so  favourable  an  opportu 
nity  of  recovering  an  erect  attitude  in  society,  by 
ranging  themselves  under  the  banners  of  a  powerful 
nation.  But  this  calculation  of  the  British  proved 
fallacious;  and  in  this  instance,  as  in  every  other,  they 
found  in  every  individual  in  Louisiana,  an  enemy 
to  Britain,  ever  ready  to  take  up  arms  against  her; 
and  those  very  men,  whose  aid  they  so  confidently 
expected  to  obtain,  signally  prove  !.  throu ghoul  the 
campaign,  particularly  in  the  service  of  the  bat- 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  25 

teries  at  Jackson's  lines,  that  the  agents  of  the  Bri 
tish  government  had  formed  a  very  erroneous  opinion 
®f  them.  (See  Note  No.  1,  at  the  end  of  the  volume.) 


The  British  finding  themselves  disappointed  in 
their  expectation  of  drawing  over  to  their  interests 
the  privateersmen  of  Barataria,  concentrated  their 
preparations  at  Pensacola  and  Apalachicola.  In  this 
latter  place,  they  had  landed  not  only  troops,  but  also 
twenty-two  thousand  stand  of  arms,  with  ammuni 
tion,  blankets,  and  clothing,  to  be  distributed  among 
the  Indians;  and  it  was  generally  reported  at  that  time, 
that  several  of  their  vessels  had  already  sailed  for 
Jamaica,  to  take  in  black  troops. 

General  Armstrong,  the  then  secretary  of  war,  by 
a  circular  letter  of  the  4th  of  July,  had  informed  the 
different  state  governments  of  the  quota  of  militia 
they  were  respectively  to  furnish,  pursuant  to  the 
president's  requisition  of  the  same  date.  (See  Ap 
pendix,  No.  7.)  On  the  6th  of  August,  the  go 
vernor  of  the  state  of  Louisiana  published,  conform 
ably  to  that  requisition,  militia  general  orders,  in 
which,  after  having  laid  before  his  constituents  the 
views  and  intentions  of  the  general  government,  to 
employ  an  adequate  force  to  maintain  with  honour 
the  contest  in  which  our  country  was  engaged,  he 
exhorted  the  citizens  of  the  state  zealously  to  stand 
the  necessary  draught  for  completing  the  thousand 
men  demanded  by  the  above  mentioned  requisition-. 
'See  Appendix,  No.  8.) 

E 


26  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

All  the  western  and  southern  newspapers  were  at 
that  time  loudly  inveighing  against  the  shameful  as 
sistance  afforded  by  the  governor  of  Pensacola  to  the 
British,  at  least  inasmuch  as  he  suffered  the  charac 
ter  of  his  nation  to  be  sullied,  by  permitting  them 
publicly  to  make  hostile  preparations  in  that  town, 
where  they  had  established  their  head-quarters,  and 
where  they  were,  if  not  the  nominal,  at  least  the  vir 
tual  masters.  Such  repeated  violations,  and  the  suc 
cours  constantly  furnished  to  the  Indians,  who  were 
evidently  the  allies  of  our  enemy,  contributed  not  a 
little  to  rouse  the  national  spirit  in  that  part  of  the 
union.  I  cannot  refrain  from  giving  here  an  extract 
from  one  of  the  papers  that  appeared  about  that  time, 
in  which  the  writer,  after  having  enumerated  all  the 
grievances  that  the  United  States  had  to  complain  of 
against  the  Spanish  governor  of  Florida,  says:  "  who 
of  us  would  not  prefer  to  take  his  fortune  as  a  com 
mon  soldier,  to  remaining  at  home  in  affluence,  while 
the  community  of  which  he  is  a  member,  submits 
tamely,  silently  and  unresistingly  to  such  indignities.37 

The  commander-in-chief  of  the  7th  district,  wrote 
to  the  governor  of  the  state,  from  fort  Jackson,  on 
the  15th  of  August,  announcing  to  him  the  necessity 
of  holding  all  the  forces  of  Louisiana  militia  in  readi 
ness  to  march  at  the  first  signal,  in  consequence  of 
the  preparations  making  at  Pensacola,  of  which  he 
had  received  certain  information.  (See  Appendix, 
No.  9.)  Conformably  to  this  order,  the  governor 
published  in  militia  general  orders,  an  extract  from 
his  letter  to  the  commanders  of  the  two  divisions  of 
state  militia,  in  which  he  gave  them  instructions  and 
regulations  for  their  respective  divisions.  Commo- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  27 

dore  Patterson,  commanding  the  station  of  New  Or 
leans  and  its  dependencies,  received  intelligence  of 
the  appearance  of  five  British  ships  of  war,  which  had 
landed  a  small  number  of  men  on  the  point  at  Dau- 
phine  island. 

General  Jackson  had  at  this  time  removed  his 
head- quarters  to  Mobile,  from  which  place  he  wrote 
to  the  governor,  on  the  22d  of  August,  a  letter  of 
which  the  following  is  an  extract: 

"  I  have' no  power  to  stipulate  with  any  particu 
lar  corps,  as  to  particular  or  local  service;  but  it  is 
not  to  be  presumed  at  present,  that  the  troops  of  Lou 
isiana  will  have  to  extend  their  services  beyond  the 
limits  of  their  own  state.  Yet  circumstances  might 
arise,  which  would  make  it  necessary  they  should  be 
called  to  face  an  invading  enemy  beyond  the  bounda 
ry  of  the  state,  to  stop  his  entry  into  their  territory." 

In  consequence  of  this  letter,  the  governor  pub 
lished,  on  the  5th  of  September,  militia  general  or 
ders,  and  afterwards  general  orders,  directing  the  mi 
litia  of  the  two  divisions  of  the  state,  to  hold  them 
selves  in  readiness  to  march,  the  first  division  under 
major-general  Villere,  being  to  be  reviewed  on  the 
10th  of  the  same  month,  by  major  Hughes,  assistant 
inspector- general  of  the  district,  in  the  city  of  New 
Orleans;  and  the  second,  under  the  command  of  ma 
jor-general  Thomas,  to  be  reviewed  at  Baton  Rouge 
on  the  first  of  October.  (See  Appendix,  No.  10.) 

By  another  general  order,  dated  New  Orleans, 
8th  September,  governor  Claiborne  ordered  the  dif 
ferent  militia  companies  in  the  city  and  suburbs  of 
New  Orleans,  to  exercise  twice,  and  those  of  the 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

other  parts  of  the  state,  once  a  week.  He  also  re 
commended  to  fathers  of  families,  and  men  whose 
advanced  age  exempted  them  from  active  service  in 
the  field,  to  form  themselves  into  corps  of  veterans, 
choose  their  own  officers,  procure  arms,  and  to  exer 
cise  occasionally.  The  governor  announces  to  his 
fellow  citizens  the  dangers  with  which  the  country  is 
threatened,  urging  to  them  that  the  preservation  of 
their  property,  the  repose  and  tranquillity  of  their 
families,  call  on  every  individual  to  exert  all  his  ef 
forts  and  vigilance;  his  order  enters  into  minute  de 
tails  as  to  the  precautions  and  police  to  be  observed  in 
the  existing  circumstances;  it  recommends  the  great 
est  diligence  to  be  exerted  in  procuring  arms,  and 
the  greatest  care  to  be  taken  of  them;  and  finally  pre 
scribes  the  conduct  to  be  observed  by  all  the  militia 
officers,  in  case  of  the  enemy's  penetrating  into  the 
state.  (See  Appendix,  No.  11.) 

About  that  time,  there  appeared  a  Spanish  trans 
lation  of  an  order  of  the  day  published  at  Pensacola, 
addressed  to  a  detachment  of  the  royal  marines  at  the 
moment  of  their  landing.  This  piece,  written  in  a 
style  of  importance  that  might  be  used  in  addressing 
a  numerous  army,  from  which  might  be  expected 
the  most  brilliant  military  achievements,  breathes  in 
veterate  hatred  against  the  Americans,  loudly  an 
nouncing  that  the  object  of  the  expedition  is  to 
avenge  the  Spaniards  for  the  pretended  insults  offered 
them  by  the  United  States. 

That  document,  replete  with  invectives  against 
the  American  character,  contains  moreover  a  strong 
recommendation  to  sobrietv;  and  from  the  earnest 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  29 

manner  in  which  the  author  insists  on  that  subject, 
one  would  be  led  to  believe  that  the  soldiers  whom 
he  addresses,  stood  in  great  need  of  his  exhortations. 
This  piece  requires  no  further  comment,  as  it  speaks 
for  itself;  the  tone  of  falsehood  and  duplicity  that  per 
vades  it,  has  induced  me  to  publish  it,  especially  as  it 
may  furnish  some  features  in  the  portrait  of  our  ene 
my.  (See  Appendix,  No.  12.) 

On  the  16th  of  September,  a  meeting  of  a  great 
number  of  the  citizens  of  New  Orleans  was  held  at 
the  Exchange  Coffee-house,  in  that  city,  and  by  them 
was  appointed  a  committee  of  defence  to  co-operate 
with  the  constituted  authorities  of  the  state,  and  with 
the  general  government,  towards  the  defence  of  the 
country.  The  president  of  that  committee,  Mr.  Ed 
ward  Livingston,  after  an  eloquent  speech,  in  which 
he  showed  the  expediency  of  making  a  solemn  decla 
ration  of  the  patriotic  sentiments  which  prevailed 
among  the  inhabitants  of  Louisiana,  who  had,  on 
several  occasions,  been  calumniated,  and  represented 
as  disaffected  to  the  American  government,  and  dis 
posed  to  transfer  their  allegiance  to  a  foreign  power, 
proposed  a  spirited  resolution  which  was  unanimous 
ly  adopted.  (See  Appendix,  No.  13.) 

This  resolution  was,  within  a  few  days,  followed 
by  an  address  from  the  committee  ot  defence  to 
their  fellow  citizens.  The  patriotic  sentiments  ex 
pressed  in  this  address,  were  such  as  need  no 
comment,  as  the  mere  perusal  of  it  will  suffice  to 
evince  the  spirit  which  animated  the  people,  of  whom 
the  committee  of  defence  wrere  on  that  occasion  the 
organ.  (See  Appendix,  No.  14.) 


39  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 


FIRST  ATTACK  ON  FORT  BOWYER. 

THE  preparations  which  the  British  had  been 
long  making  at  Pensacola,  where,  regardless  of  the 
rights  of  neutrality,  the  Spanish  governor  permitted 
the  enemy  of  a  nation  with  which  his  government 
was  at  peace,  publicly  to  recruit,  nay,  even  exercise 
his  troops  and  the  savage  Indians  whom  he  had  en 
listed,  and  whom  he  excited  by  every  means  of  se 
duction,  to  renew  the  horrid  scenes  exhibited  at  fort 
Minis;  the  little  care  they  took  in  their  proud  and 
frantic  spirit  to  conceal  their  projects;  the  advanta 
geous  situation  of  the  point  of  Mobile,  as  a  military 
post,  were  among  the  circumstances  which  made  it 
probable  that  fort  Bowyer  was  the  object  of  the  expe 
dition  the  British  were  fitting  out  at  Pensacola. 

Major  Lawrence,  who  commanded  that  fort,  was 
well  aware  of  the  means  which  the  enemy  intended 
to  employ  against  him;  and  accordingly  he  made  the 
utmost  exertions  to  put  the  post  confided  to  him,  in 
a  condition  to  make  a  vigorous  resistance;  while  the 
brave  garrison  under  his  command  ardently  longed 
for  an  opportunity  of  evincing  their  zeal  and  devoted- 
ness  for  the  honour  and  interest  of  their  beloved  coun- 
try. 

Before  I  enter  on  the  glorious  defence  made  by 
that  garrison,  it  seems  proper  that  I  describe  the 
situation  of  fort  Bowyer,  and  that  of  Mobile  point. 
It  is  indeed  unnecessary  to  show  how  important 
the  occupation  of  that  spot  must  necessarily  have 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  31 

been  towards  the  success  of  military  operations  in 
tended  against  Louisiana,  as  that  will  sufficiently 
appear  from  the  bare  inspection  of  the  map.  I  will, 
therefore,  merely  observe  that  the  point  of  the  Mo 
bile  commands  the  passes  at  the  entrance  of  the  bay, 
and  consequently  the  navigation  of  the  rivers  which 
empty  into  it;  that  on  the  eastern  side  it  commands 
the  species  of  archipelago  which  extends  in  a  paral 
lel  direction  as  far  as  the  passes  Mariana  and  Christi 
ana;  that  from  its  situation  advancing  into  the  gulf,  it 
must  ever  afford  to  those  who  hold  it,  the  means  of 
exercising  an  almost  exclusive  control  over  the  navi 
gation  of  the  coast  of  West  Florida;  and  that  its  prox 
imity  to  Pensacola  secures  to  it  a  prompt  and  easy 
communication  with  that  town. 

This  point,  forming  the  extremity  of  a  peninsula, 
joined  to  the  continent  by  an  isthmus  four  miles  wide, 
between  the  river  and  bay  of  Bonsecours  and  the  bay 
Perdido,  extends  in  an  east  and  west  direction,  in 
clining  a  little  towards  the  south,  for  the  space  of 
twenty-nine  miles  in  length,  from  the  mouth  of  the 
Perdido.  A  large  oblong  lake,  called  Borgne,  occu 
pies  the  greater  portion  of  its  interior  towards  the 
east,  which,  independently  of  the  narrow  neck  of 
land  formed  by  the  two  bays,  affords  in  several  points 
the  facility  of  cutting  oft  all  communication  with  the 
continent.  The  breadth  of  the  peninsula  decreases 
as  it  extends  towards  the  west,  so  that  three  miles 
from  the  point  it  is  only  half  a  mile  wide.  This  part 
affords  another  means  of  defence,  of  which  the  Brit 
ish  availed  themselves  when  they  encamped  on  the 
peninsula  during  their  last  attack;  I  mean  a  ditch  or 


32  HISTORI  CAL  MEMOIR. 

coulee,  communicating  with  a  lagoon,  the  whole  oc 
cupying  upwards  of  half  the  breadth  of  the  peninsula. 
Some  briars  and  stunted  fir  trees  and  live  oaks 
grow  here  and  there  on  a  soil  almost  entirely  formed 
of  sand  and  shells,  which  mixture  gives  it  a  very  firm 
consistency.  Within  two  miles  of  the  point  vege 
tation  ceases  almost  entirely,  and  the  soil  becomes  a 
succession  of  downs,  ditches,  ravines,  and  hillocks  of 
sand,  arid  and  moving  in  some  places,  and  in  others 
as  hard  as  beaten  ground.  These  ditches  are  from 
four  to  eight  feet  deep,  forming  several  sinuosities, 
where  one  sees  here  and  there  a  few  tufts  of  grass. 
It  is  nearly  at  the  extremity  of  this  tongue  of  land, 
on  the  point  rounding  towards  the  northeast,  that 
fort  Bowyer  is  situated.  The  part  that  is  nearest  the 
shore  is  the  angle  of  the  north  curtain  and  the  semi 
circular  battery  facing  the  pass,  and  opening  a  little 
at  the  distance  of  fifty  yards,  contiguous  to  a  bluff 
which  skirts  the  peninsula  on  both  sides,  nearly  in  its 
whole  length. 

Fort  Bowyer  is  a  redoubt  formed  on  the  sea 
side,  by  a  semi-circular  battery  of  four  hundred  feet 
in  development,  flanked  with  two  curtains  sixty  feet  in 
length,  and  joined  to  a  bastion  whose  capital  line  pass 
es  through  the  centre  of  the  c ire ular  battery.  This 
bastion  has  but  thirty -five  feet  in  its  gorge,  with  two 
flanks,  each  capable  of  receiving  but  one  piece  of  ar 
tillery,  and  fifty  feet  in  length  on  its  front  and  rear 
aspects. 

Its  interior  dimensions  are  one  hundred  and 
eighty  feet  in  length  from  the  summit  of  the  bastion 
to  the  parapet  of  the  circular  battery,  and  two  him  - 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  33 

dred  feet  for  the  length  of  the  cord  of  the  arc  descri 
bed  by  the  battery.  The  receding  angles  formed  by 
the  curtains  with  the  flanks  of  the  bastion  and  those 
of  the  battery,  considerably  diminish  the  dimensions 
of  this  fort,  the  superficies  of  which  may  be  estimated 
at  twenty -two  thousand  feet. 

The  circular  parts  and  the  flanks  which  join  it 
to  the  curtains,  have  a  parapet  fifteen  feet  thick  at 
the  summit,  and  in  all  the  rest  of  the  perimeter  of 
the  fort,  the  parapet  does  not  exceed  the  thickness  of 
three  feet  above  the  platforms;  a  fosse  twenty  feet 
wide  surrounds  the  fort,  and  a  very  insufficient  glacis 
without  a  covered  way  completes  the  fortification. 
The  interior  front  of  the  parapet  is  formed  of  pine,  a 
resinous  wood  which  a  single  shell  would  be  sufficient 
to  set  on  fire.  The  fort  is  destitute  of  casemates  (the 
only  shelter  from  bombs)  even  for  the  sick,  the  am* 
munition  or  provisions.  To  these  inconveniencies 
may  be  added  the  bad  situation  of  the  fort,  command- 
fid  by  several  mounds  of  sand,  as  above  described,  at 
the  distance  of  from  two  to  three  hundred  yards. 
On  the  summit  of  those  mounds  it  would  be  very 
easy  to  mount  pieces  of  artillery,  whose  slanting  fire 
would  command  the  inside  of  the  fort. 

From  the  first  information  of  the  preparations 
making  by  the  British  at  Pensacola,  until  the  12th  of 
September,  on  which  day  four  large  vessels  were 
discovered  in  the  offing,  the  garrison  of  the  fort  had 
been  constantly  employed  in  putting  the  fortifications 
in  a  condition  to  resist  the  enemy.  Major  Lawrence 
aow  ordered  all  the  men  of  the  garrison  to  enter 
within  the  fort,  and  to  ke,ep  themselves  in  readiness 

F 


34  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

for  action.  From  that  moment  the  garrison  passed 
each  night  under  arms,  every  man  at  his  post. 

Before  I  enter  on  the  particulars  of  the  eventb 
posterior  to  the  12th,  it  may  be  proper  to  give  a  state 
ment  of  the  strength  of  the  garrison,  and  of  the 
means  of  defence. 

The  garrison  consisted  of  one  hundred  and  thirty 
men  including  officers,  and  the  whole  artillery  of 
the  fort  was  twenty  pieces  of  cannon,  distributed 
in  the  following  manner:  two  twenty- fours,  six 
twelves,  eight  nines,  and  four  fours;  the  twen 
ty-fours  and  twelves  being  alone  mounted  on 
coast  carriages,  and  all  the  others  on  Spanish  carri 
ages  little  fit  for  service.  One  nine-pounder  and 
three  fours  were  mounted  on  the  bastion,  all  the  rest 
on  the  circular  battery  and  its  flanks.  Those  guns 
in  the  rear  bastion  and  on  the  flanks,  were  on  tem 
porary  platforms,  and  the  men  exposed  from  their 
knees  upwards. 

On  the  12th  of  September,  the  sentinel  stationed 
towards  lake  Borgne,  reported  that  on  the  morning 
of  that  day  the  enemy  had  landed  six  hundred 
Indians  or  Spaniards,  and  one  hundred  and  thirty 
marines,  and  on  the  evening  of  the  same  day,  two 
English  sloops  of  war,  with  two  brigs,  came  to  an 
chor  on  the  coast,  within  six  miles  east  of  the  fort. 

On  the  13th,  the  enemy  sent  reconnoitring  par 
lies  towards  the  back  of  the  fort,  who  approached 
to  within  three  quarters  of  a  mile  of  it.  At  half  after 
twelve,  the  enemy  approached  within  the  distance 
of  seven  hundred  yards,  whence  they  threw  against 
the  fort  three  shells  and  one  cannon  ball.  The  shells 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  35 

did  no  injury,  having  exploded  in  the  air;  but  the 
ball,  which  was  a  twelve  pound  shot,  struck  a  piece 
of  timber  that  crowned  the  rampart  of  the  curtain, 
part  of  which  it  carried  away  and  then  rebounded. 
The  fort  returned  a  few  shots  in  the  direction  of  the 
smoke  of  the  enemy's  guns,  they  being  covered  by 
the  mounds  of  sand. 

Meanwhile,  the  enemy,  under  cover  of  those 
mounds,  retired  a  mile  and  a  half  behind  the  fort,  and 
appeared  to  be  employed  in  raising  intrenchments. 
Three  discharges  of  cannon  were  once  more  sufficient 
to  disperse  them.  In  the  afternoon,  several  light  boats 
having  attempted  to  sound  the  channel  nearest  the 
point,  were  forced,  by  the  balls  and  grape-shot  fired 
against  them,  to  return  to  their  ships. 

On  the  14th,  at  six  in  the  morning,  the  enemy 
still  continued  at  the  same  distance,  apparently  em 
ployed  in  some  works  of  fortification;  the  ships  like 
wise  remained  at  the  same  anchorage. 

On  the  15th  of  September,  a  day  ever  memora 
ble  for  the  garrison  of  fort  Bowyer,  the  enemy  by 
his  movements  gave  early  indications  of  his  intention 
to  attack;  for  by  break  of  day,  a  very  active  com 
munication  was  perceived  between  the  ships  and  the 
troops  on  shore. 

Towards  noon,  the  wind  having  slackened  to  a 
light  breeze  from  the  southeast,  the  ships  weighed 
anchor  and  stood  out  to  sea:  at  two  o'clock  they 
tacked  and  bore  down  against  the  fort  before  the 
wind  in  line  of  battle,  in  the  channel,  the  foremost 
ship  being  the  Hermes,  on  board  of  which  was  the 
commodore,  captain  Percy. 


36  HISTORICAL  MEMOIK. 

Major  Lawrence  seeing  the  enemy  determined 
on  making  a  regular  attack,  called  a  council  of  all  his 
officers.  They  unanimously  agreed  to  make  the 
most  obstinate  resistance,  vigorously  exerting  every 
means  of  defence,  and  came  to  the  following  resolu 
tion: 

"  That  in  case  of  being,  by  imperious  necessity, 
compelled  to  surrender  (which  could  only  happen  in 
the  last  extremity,  on  the  ramparts  being  entirely 
battered  down,  and  the  garrison  almost  wholly  de 
stroyed,  so  that  any  further  resistance  would  be  evi 
dently  useless,)  no  capitulation  should  be  agreed  on, 
unless  it  had  for  its  fundamental  article  that  the  offi 
cers  and  privates  should  retain  their  arms  and  their 
private  property,  and  that  on  no  pretext  should  the 
Indians  be  suffered  to  commit  any  outrage  on  their 
persons  or  property;  and  unless  full  assurance  were 
given  them  that  they  would  be  treated  as  prisoners 
of  war,  according  to  the  custom  established  among 
civilized  nations." 

AH  the  officers  of  the  garrison  unanimously  swore, 
in  no  case,  nor  on  any  pretext,  to  recede  from  the 
above  conditions;  and  they  pledged  themselves  to 
each  other,  that  in  case  of  the  death  of  any  of  them, 
the  survivors  would  still  consider  themselves  bound 
to  adhere  to  what  had  been  resolved  on. 

By  4  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  the  commodore's 
ship  being  within  the  reach  of  our  great  guns,  a  fire 
was  opened  on  her  from  two  twcnty-four-pounders. 
but  with  little  effect.  The  ship  then  fired  one  of  her 
fore  guns,  but  her  shot  did  not  reach  the  fort.  As 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  37 

the  ships  appeared,  all  the  guns  that  could  be  brought 
to  bear  opened  on  them  a  brisk  fire. 

At  half  past  four,  the  Hermes  came  to  anchor 
under  our  battery,  within  musket  shot  of  the  fort; 
and  the  other  three  took  their  station  behind  that 
ship,  forming  a  line  of  battle  in  the  channel.  The 
engagement  now  became  general,  and  the  circular, 
battery  kept  up  a  dreadful  firj  against  the  most  ad 
vanced  ships,  whilst,  on  the  other  hand,  the  four 
ships  discharged  against  the  fort  whole  broadsides, 
besides  frequent  single  shots.  Meanwhile  captain 
Woodbine,  the  person  who  had  enlit  ed  and  trained 
the  Indians  in  Pensacola,  opened  the  fire  of  a  battery 
that  he  had  established  behind  the  bluff  on  the  south 
east  shore,  at  the  distance  of  seven  hundred  yards 
from  the  fort.  That  battery  had  one  twelve-pounder 
and  a  six -inch  howitzer,  firing  balls  and  shells:  these 
the  south  battery  of  the  fort  soon  silenced.  It  was 
now  that  the  fire  on  both  sides  raged  with  the  great 
est  fury;  the  fort  and  the  ships  being  enveloped  in  a 
blaze  of  fire  and  smoke,  until  half  past  five,  when  the 
haliards  of  the  commodore's  flag  were  carried  away 
by  a  ball,  and  the  flag  fell. 

On  this  major  Lawrence,  with  his  characteristic 
humanity,  instantly  caused  the  firing  to  cease,  with  a 
view  to  ascertain  the  real  intention  of  the  enemy, 
who  discontinued  firing  for  five  minutes;  at  the  ex 
piration  of  which,  the  brig  next  to  the  Hermes,  dis 
charged  a  whole  broadside  against  the  fort,  and  at  the 
same  time  the  commodore  hoisted  a  new  flag.  All 
the  guns  of  the  battery  being  at  that  moment  loaded, 
they  were  all  fired  at  once,  and  produced  such  a  com- 


38  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

motion  that  it  shook  the  ground.  A  few  moments 
of  silence  succeeded.  The  enemy  began  to  perceive 
the  effect  his  conduct  had  on  the  minds  of  the  garri 
son,  who  indignant  at  the  manner  in  which  the  British 
made  war,  resolved,  from  the  moment  of  the  flag's 
being  replaced,  to  bury  themselves  under  the  ruins 
of  the  fort,  rather  than  surrender.  The  fire  being 
renewed,  continued  for  some  time  on  both  sides  with 
the  same  violence.  The  Hermes  having  had  her^ca- 
ble.cut,  was  carried  away  by  the  current,  and  pre 
sented  her  head  to  the  fort,  and  in  that  position  she 
remained  from  fifteen  to  twenty  minutes,  whilst  the 
raking  fire  of  the  fort  swept  fore  and  aft  almost  every 
thing  on  deck.  At  the  moment  when  the  fire  was 
most  intense,  the  flagstaff  was  carried  away.  This 
the  British  plainly  perceived;  bilt  instead  of  following 
the  example  of  major  Lawrence,  in  suspending  their 
fire,  they  redoubled  it,  and  each  of  the  ships  discharg 
ed  her  whole  broadside  against  the  fort. 

Major  Lawrence  immediately  hoisted  another  flag 
on  the  edge  of  the  parapet,  having  fastened  it  to  a 
sponge- staff. 

No  sooner  had  the  flag  of  the  fort  fallen,  than  the 
enemy's  troops  on  shore  advanced  towards  the  fort, 
believing  it  had  surrendered;  but  a  few  discharges 
of  grape-shot  soon  convinced  them  of  their  error, 
and  forced  them  to  retire  again  behind  the  mounds 
of  sand.  The  Hermes  no  longer  holding  by  her  ca- 
ble,  drifted  with  the  current  about  half  a  mile,  and 
having  run  aground  on  the  bank,  the  commodore  set 
her  on  fire.  The  brig  that  was  next  in  the  line  to 
the  Hermes,  had  suffered  so  much,  that  it  was  with 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  39 

difficulty  she  could  retire  beyond  the  reach  of  the 
guns  of  the  fort;  but  at  last  the  three  remaining  ships 
got  out  to  sea.  The  fort  continued  firing  on  the 
Hermes  until  night,  by  which  time  she  appeared  in 
flames,  and  burned  until  eleven,  when  the  fire  having 
reached  the  powder,  she  blew  up  with  a  tremendous 
explosion. 

During  the  action,  two  of  the  guns  of  the  fort 
were  dismounted,  and  one  broken  off  by  a  thirty -two 
pound  ball,  and  another  burst.  I  must  observe,  that 
of  the  whole  number  of  guns  that  were  in  the  fort, 
eight  could  not  be  brought  to  bear  on  the  ships,  and 
that  the  greater  part  of  the  men  who  served  at  the  guns, 
belonged  to  the  infantry,  and  had  never  seen  artillery 
service  before  they  were  stationed  at  fort  Bowyer: 
several  of  their  officers  also  were  little  acquainted  with 
artillery.  (See  Atlas,  plate  No.  3.) 

To  form  a  just  estimate  of  the  m^rit  of  the  brave 
garrison  of  fort  Bowyer,  it  is  necessary  to  know  the 
force  they  had  to  contend  against;  I  therefore  give 
here  the  statement  of  that  force,  as  follows: 

The  ship  Hermes  of       28  32-pound  carronades. 

The  ship  Caron  28  do. 

The  brig  Sophia  18  do. 

The  Anaconda  16  do. 

90  guns. 

A  land  battery,  one  12  pound-  ?  o 
er  and  a  6  inch  howitzer.      3 

Total  pieces  of  artillery  92 


40  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

The  enemy's  force  in  men  was  as  follows: 
The  Hermes  had 
The  Caron 
The  Sophia 
The  Anaconda 

Marines 
Indians 


The  whole  effective  force  1330  men. 

From  the  above  statement,  the  proportion  appears 
:o  have  been  above  ten  to  one;  and  five  to  one  pieces 
of  artillery. 

The  loss  sustained  by  the  garrison  was  four  kil 

led  and  four  wounded.     That  of  the  enemy  was: 

On  board  the  four  ships  killed  160 

Wounded  70 

On  land  killed  2 

Total  232 

The  proportion  appears  thus  to  be  twenty-nine 
killed  on  the  side  of  the  British  to  one  on  the  side  of 
the  garrison. 

Such  was  the  result  of  the  expedition  fitted  out 
at  Pensacola  with  the  greatest  care,  and  with  all  man 
ner  of  assistance  on  the  part  of  the  Spaniards. 

This  victory  of  the  American  arms  over  the  Bri^ 
tish  troops  under  such  circumstances,  with  so  extra 
ordinary  a  disproportion  of  force  and  of  loss,  was  but 
the  harbinger  of  the  brilliant  successes  which  the  sons 
of  liberty  were  very  soon  to  obtain  on  the  banks  of  the 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  41 

> 

Mississippi,  and  of  the  humiliation  that  awaited  Bri 
tish  pride. 

Commodore  Percy  relied  so  much  on  the  superi 
ority  of  the  number  of  troops  with  which  he  was 
about  to  attack  fort  Bowyer,  that  he  made  no  secret 
of  his  intention  to  allow  the  garrison  but  twenty  mi 
nutes  to  capitulate.  But  how  wofully  he  was  disap 
pointed  in  his  expectations! 

Instead  of  the  laurels  he  was  so  confident  of  gather 
ing,  he  carried  off  the  shame  of  having  been  repuls 
ed  by  a  handful  of  men,  inferior  by  nine-tenths  to  the 
forces  he  commanded.  Instead  of  possessing  him 
self  of  an  important  point,  very  advantageous  for  the 
military  operations  contemplated  by  his  government, 
he  left  under  the  guns  of  fort  Bowyer  the  wrecks  of 
his  own  vessel,  and  the  dead  bodies  of  one  hundred 
and  sixty-two  of  his  men.  Instead  of  returning  to 
Pensacola  in  triumph,  offering  the  Spaniards,  as  a  re 
ward  of  their  good  wishes  and  assistance,  a  portion  of 
the  laurels  obtained,  and  the  pleasure  of  seeing  the 
American  prisoners  he  was  confident  of  taking,  he 
brought  back  to  that  port,  which  had  witnessed  his 
extravagant  boasting,  nothing  but  three  shattered 
vessels  full  of  wounded  men. 

The  Spaniards,  too  timid  and  too  weak  to  dare  to 
attempt  any  thing  by  themselves,  saw  in  the  British 
avengers  sent  to  realize  the  chimerical  dreams  with 
which  they  had  fondly  suffered  themselves  to  be  de 
luded.  At  the  Havanna,  in  Pensacola,  and  even  in 
New  Orleans,  six  months  before  the  attack  on  fort 
Bowyer,  it  had  been  currently  reported  that  the  time 
was  not  far  off  when  the  Spanish  government  was  to 


HISTORICAL    MEMOIR. 

recover  possession  of  that  part  of  Florida  annexed  to 
the  state  of  Louisiana  and  to  the  Mississippi  territory. 

Too  prudent  to  attempt  any  thing  without  being 
sure  of  success,  too  weak  for  any  undertaking  by 
themselves,  the  Spaniards  relied  on  the  English  for 
the  recovery,  without  danger  to  them,  of  that  which, 
with  so  little  foundation,  they  claimed  as  a  portion 
of  their  territory. 

This  guile  and  duplicity  of  the  Spaniards,  was 
seen  through  by  the  Americans,  and  it  will  hereafter 
appear  that  the  commander  of  the  seventh  military 
district  of  the  United  States,  thought  it  his  duty  to 
put  a  stop  to  their  infamous  proceedings. 

The  important  service  rendered  by  the  garrison 
effort  Bowyer  could  not  fail  to  be  justly  estimated. 
On  the  17th  general  Jackson,  then  at  Mobile,  wrote 
a  complimentary  letter  to  major  Lawrence,  expres 
sive  of  the  joy  he  felt  on  hearing  of  the  glorious  de 
fence  made  by  the  garrison  under  his  command,  and 
acquainting  him  that  he  had  despatched  information 
of  it  to  the  general  government,  who  would  not  fail 
duly  to  reward  the  brave  defenders  of  the  rights  and 
honour  of  the  American  people. 

The  New  Orleans  committee  of  defence  resolved 
that  their  president,  Edward  Livingston,  esqr.  should 
be  diiccted  to  write  in  their  name  to  major  Lawrence, 
to  assure  him  of  the  sentiments  of  gratitude  and  joy 
with  which  the  inhabitants  of  that  city  had  learned 
the  gallant  defence  of  fort  BoiVyer,  and  the  impor 
tant  service  rendered  by  the  garrison,  not  only  to 
Louisiana,  but  to  the  whole  union,  in  preserving  to 
them  so  important  a  point.  At  the  same  time  it  was 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR*  43 

resolved  that,  in  testimony  of  these  sentiments,  there 
should  be  presented  to  major  Lawrence  a  sword 
adorned  with  suitable  emblems.  (See  Appendix, 
No.  15.) 

On  the  21st  of  September,  major-general  Jack 
son,  whose  head-quarters  were  at  that  t.me  at  Mobile, 
issued  a  proclamation  to  the  inhabitants  of  Louisiana, 
in  which  he  sets  forth  the  perfidious  conduct  of  the 
British  on  our  coasts,  and  the  proposal  made  to  the 
privateers  of  Barataria,  to  join  them,  and  rally  round 
their  standard.  That  proclamation  announces  to  the 
Louisianians  that  the  government  and  the  general 
rely  on  their  zealous  assistance  in  repelling  the  enemy, 
should  he  dare  to  set  foot  on  our  soil.  (See  Appendix 
No.  16.)  On  the  same  day,  general  Jackson  issued  a 
proclamation  addressed  to  the  free  men  of  colour  of 
Louisiana,  inviting  them  to  unite  under  the  banners 
of  their  country  for  the  purpose  of  contributing  to  its 
defence.  That  proclamation  refers  them  to  governor 
Ciaiborne  for  instructions  as  to  the  mode  of  forming 
eorps.  (See  Appendix,  No.  17.) 

The  spirit  of  patriotism  and  zeal  which  had  been 
evinced  with  so  much  ardour  for  the  defence  of  the 
country,  in  Tennessee,  by  the  levying  of  the  troops 
that  had  already  joined  general  Jackson,  and  were 
encamped  on  the  Alabama,  under  the  command  of 
general  Coffee,  was  again  manifested  in  the  further 
levy  of  five  thousand  men,  which  took  place  in  that 
state  about  the  middle  of  October.  The  general 
government  had  received  information  that  the  enemy 
was  preparing  an  expedition  against  the  state  of  Lou 
isiana,  by  the  way  of  Mobile,  and  that  his  intention 


44  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

was  to  obtain  possession  of  all  the  coast,  from  cape 
Florida,  as  far  as  the  Spanish  provinces  to  the  west  of 
the  Mississippi. 


EXPEDITION  AGAINST  PENSACOLA. 

THE  Creek  Indians  in  the  year  1813  had  been  de 
feated  and  routed  by  a  body  of  the  Tennessee  militia 
commanded  by  major  general  Andrew  Jackson,  and 
deputies  of  the  Creek  nation  having  sued  for  peace, 
had  agreed  to  meet  him  or  some  American  commis 
sioners  on  the  10th  of  August  1814,  to  determine 
the  boundaries  of  their  nation  with  the  United  States. 
The  treaty,  as  now  in  force,  was  settled;  but  a  cer 
tain  proportion  of  the  Creeks  having  refused  to  par 
ticipate  in  it,  remained  still  at  war  with  the  United 
States,  committing  depredations  on  our  settlements 
on  the  Alabama,  the  Tombigbee,  and  Mobile  bay,  and 
they  were  aided  and  abetted  by  the  Spaniards,  who 
supplied  them  with  arms  and  ammunition,  and  receiv 
ed  in  Pensacola  the  property  plundered  from  our  citi 
zens.  General  Jackson  demanded  satisfaction  from 
the  Spanish  governor  of  Pensacola,  who  in  a  haughty 
answer  said,  that  he  would  protect,  clothe  and  arm,  his 
Indians  (as  he  termed  them) — that  in  the  ensuing  fall 
he  would  expatiate  more  largely  on  the  subject,  evi 
dently  alluding  to  the  intended  attack  of  the  south 
ern  states  by  the  British.  The  messenger  who 
brought  this  answer  had  hardly  arrived,  when  a  Bri 
tish  force,  allied  with  the  Creek  Indians,  came  from 
Pensacola  and  attacked,  on  the  15th  September  1814. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  45 

fort  Eowytr  on  Mobile  Point;  and  after  having  been 
repulsed,  as  has  been  above  related,  with  the  loss 
of  a  ship  and  a  great  number  of  men,  they  returned 
to  Pensacola,  and  there  were  received,  as  the  friends 
and  allies  of  the  Spaniards,  who  suffered  them  to  gar 
rison  their  forts,  and  even  arrested  and  confined  some 
American  citizens,  who  were  suspected  of  being  un 
friendly  to  the  British  government. 

Major- general  Jackson,  to  put  an  end  to  this 
breach  of  the  law  of  nations,  determined  to  take 
possession  of  Pensacola,  thereby  to  deprive  the  Indi 
ans  and  their  British  allies  of  a  place  of  shelter  and 
refuge,  after  their  aggressions  on  our  territory.  He 
accordingly  assembled,  near  fort  Montgomery  on  the 
Alabama,  an  army  of  about  four  thousand  men,  com 
posed  of  detachments  of  the  3d,  39th,  and  44th  re 
giments  of  infantry,  the  militia  of  Tennessee,  and  a 
battalion  of  volunteer  dragoons  of  the  Mississippi  ter 
ritory. 

A  detachment  of  cavalry  under  lieutenant  Mur 
ray  of  the  Mississippi  dragoons  were  sent  to  recon 
noitre.  They  made  prisoners  a  Spanish  advanced 
picket,  but  could  perceive  nothing;  and  lieutenant 
Murray  having  imprudently  followed  alone  an  Indian 
whom  he  saw  at  some  distance,  was  shot  by  him.  He 
was  regretted  as  a  brave  and  excellent  officer.  The 
army  arrived  on  the  6th  of  November  1814,  within 
two  miles  of  Pensacola.  (See  Atlas,  plate  No.  2.) 

Major-general  Jackson  despatched  major  Peire  to 
the  governor  with  a  summons;  but  when  that  officer 
was  at  about  two  or  three  hundred  yards  distance  of 
fort  St.  Michael,  in  defiance  of  the  sacred  laws  of  na- 


46  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

tions,  he  was  fired  upon  from  a  twelve-pounder,  al 
though  his  character,  as  a  flag  of  truce,  could  not  be 
mistaken,  he  having  a  large  white  flag  and  approach- 
ing  alone;  major  Peire,  after  having  reconnoitred  the 
fort  and  seen  it  occupied  by  British  troops,  reported 
to  the  commanding  general,  who  had  been  previously 
informed  that  two  flags  (one  Spanish  the  other  British) 
had  been  displayed  on  the  wails  of  the  fort,  and  that 
the  latter  had  only  been  withdrawn  the  day  before 
the  arrival  of  the  American  army;  and  making  no 
doubt  that  this  wanton  behaviour  towards  the  sacred 
character  of  a  flag  of  truce,  was  only  to  be  attributed 
to  the  British,  who,  doubtless,  did  not  wish  to  be  seen 
in  the  act  of  violating  the  neutrality  of  the  Spanish 
territory,  the  major-general  impelled  by  a  sense  of  hu 
manity  towards  the  oppressed  Spaniards  sent  a  letter 
by  a  prisoner,  to  the  governor,  demanding  an  expla 
nation  and  satisfaction  of  the  affront  offered  to  his  flag. 
The  army  was  at  the  same  time  encamped  one 
mile  and  a  half  from  the  town.  The  Spanish  governor 
immediately  despatched  an  officer  with  assurances  of 
his  not  having  had  any  participation  in  the  transac 
tion  of  the  morning,  and  added  that  if  the  major-ge 
neral  was  pleased  to  renew  the  communication,  he 
pledged  himself  that  his  messenger  should  be  receiv 
ed  with  due  respect.  Major  Peire  went  again  at 
midnight,  with  instructions.  The  governor  having 
assembled  his  principal  officers,  was  informed  of  the 
conditions  proposed  by  general  Jackson,  viz:  to  re 
ceive  an  American  garrison  in  the  forts  St.  Michael 
and  Barrancas,  until  the  Spanish  government  could 
procure  a  sufficient  force  to  enable  them  to  maintain 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  47 

their  neutrality  against  its  violation  by  the  British  who 
had  possessed  themselves  of  the  fortresses,  notwith 
standing  the  remonstrances  and  protest  of  the  Spa 
nish  governor.  That  the-  Amenean  forces  should  be 
withdrawn  as  soon  as  such  a  respectable  force  should 
arrive.  These  conditions  having  been  refused,  ma 
jor  Peire  declared,  agreeably  to  his  instructions,  that 
however  reluctant  to  the  feelings  of  the  general,  re 
course  would  be  had  to  arms. 

On  his  return,  the  7th  November,  1814,  three 
thousand  men  were  marched  from  the  encampment 
in  three  columns:  the  centre,  composed  of  detachments 
of  the  39th  and  44th  regiments  of  infantry,  command 
ed  by  major  Woodruff,  and  two  pieces  of  artillery. 
The  right  column,  composed  of  general  Coffee's  vo 
lunteers  of  Tennessee,  and  the  left  of  the  drafted  mi 
litia  of  Tennessee  and  the  Chactaw  Indians,  command 
ed  by  major  Blue,  marched  in  the  rear,  with  a  batta 
lion  of  volunteer  dragoons  of  the  Mississippi  territo 
ry,  under  major  Hinds. 

The  column  was  directed  to  proceed  along  the  sea 
beach  towards  the  eastward  of  the  town,  to  avoid  pass 
ing  under  the  fire  of  fort  St.  Michael;  when  in  sight  of 
the  town,  the  sand  proving  too  heavy  for  the  artillery 
to  make  any  progress,  the  centre  column  was  ordered 
to  charge,  which  was  done  in  the  most  gallant  manner. 
As  soon  as  the  head  of  the  column  appeared  in  the 
principal  street,  a  Spanish  battery  of  two  pieces  was 
opened  against  them,  but  was  immediately  carried  at 
the  point  of  the  bayonet,  with  the  loss  of  eleven  men 
killed  and  wounded;  amongst  the  latter  were  the  gal 
lant  captain  Lavafbf  the  3d,  and  lieutenant  Flournov 


48  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

of  the  44th  regiment.  The  Spaniards  lost  only  a 
few  men,  four  killed  and  six  wounded;  the  American 
soldiers,  with  that  mild  disposition  which  character 
izes  the  brave,  having  spared  the  vanquished. 

The  governor  of  Pensacola,  don  Gonzales  Man- 
riques,  having  sent  a  flag  of  truce  to  the  American 
general,  hostilities  immediately  ceased,  and  it  was 
agreed  that  the  block  houses  in  town,  fort  St.  Michael, 
and  Barrancas,  should  receive  an  American  garrison. 
But  the  commandant  of  fort  St.  Michael  refused  to 
obey  the  order  of  the  governor.  The  general  sent 
him  a  summons  offering  him  the  same  advantageous 
propositions  which  had  been  made  the  night  before, 
and  giving  him  half  an  hour  to  determine;  and  having 
given  the  command  of  the  town  to  major  Peire  and 
left  him  eight  hundred  men,  with  instructions  to  get 
possession  of  the  fort  before  night,  either  by  negoci- 
ating  or  by  force,  retired  to  his  camp  with  the  remain 
der  of  the  troops.  As  he  left  the  town,  the  British 
shipping  attempted  to  annoy  him  with  long  guns,  but 
without  effect. 

It  was  of  the  utmost  importance  that  the  forts 
should  be  taken  possession  of  before  morning,  as 
the  British  frigate  the  Seahorse,  the  Sophia  sloop 
of  war,  and^.he  • had  springs  to  their  ca 
bles  and  were  ready  either  t  >  set  fire  to  the  town 
or  effect  a  landing.  The  following  measures  were 
taken.  Two  companies,  with  three  pieces  of  can 
non,  under  the  command  of  captain  Denkins,  were 
placed  on  mount  St.  Bernard,  a  position  which  com 
mands  fort  St.  Michael,  ami  five  hundred  men  were 
placed  on  the  beach  to  oppose  a  landing  if  attempted. 
At  six  o'clock  P.  M.  colonel  Sotto,  commandant  of 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  49 

f&rt  St.  Michael,  after  having  sent  by  two  captains  a 
verbal  acceptance  of  the  conditions  offered  him,  refu 
sed  to  receive  captain  Denkins  with  his  command, 
whom  major  Peire  had  sent  to  take  possession  of 
the  fort,  saying  they  could  not  evacuate  it  before 
morning.  These  delays  and  the  bad  faith  of  the 
Spanish  commandant  were  evidently  designed  to  give 
the  British  time  to  prepare  to  come  to  their  assistance. 
This  did  not  escape  the  American  commandant,  who 
ordered  captain  Denkins  to  commence  an  aft'ack  up 
on  the  fort  immediately,  and  was  about  to  march  his 
forces  to  storm  the  place,  when  colonel  Sotto,  aware 
of  the  consequences,  surrendered,  under  the  same 
conditions  proposed  at  first  by  the  general  in  chief — 
and  possession  was  taken  of  the  fort  at  eleven  o'clock 
P.  M.  On  the  same  afternoon  a  battery  called  St. 
Rose,  situated  opposite  fort  Barrancas  at  the  entrance 
of  the  bay,  was  blown  up  by  the  Spaniards. 

It  is  here  worthy  of  remark  that  property  was 
respected  and  good  order  and  decorum  as  much  ob 
served  as  if  the  American  troops  had  entered  a  friend- 
ly  town;  and  although  it  had  been  taken  by  storm, 
not  a  single  act  of  insubordination  was  complained 
of.  The  Spaniards  were  so  much  pleased  with  this 
behaviour,  that  they  expressed  their  admiration  and 
astonishment,  at  being  better  treated  by  the  Ameri 
cans,  who  seemingly  had  entered  their  town  as  foes, 
than  by  their  British  allies  and  friends,  who  used 
them  very  cavalierly  and  secreted  on  board  their  ships 
nearly  four  hundred  slaves,  who  had  ran  away  from 
their  masters.,  and  vvho,  notwithstanding  severe  remofi- 


50  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

strances  and  repeated  applications  from  the  Spanish 
authorities,  refused  to  restore  them. 

Next  morning,  the  8th,  the  governor  having  been 
applied  to,  for  his  order  to  the  commandant  of  the 
Barrancas  to  receive  an  American  garrison,  refused 
to  give  it,  alleging  that  it  would  not  be  obeyed. 
General  Jackson  then  resolved  to  go  down  and  take 
that  fortress.  The  Barrancas  is  a  strong  battery,  of 

twenty-four  pounders,  and  together  with 

fort  St.  Rose,  on  a  small  island  situated  opposite,  com* 
mands  effectually  the  entrance  of  Pensacola  bay;  but 
on  the  land  side  it  is  not  so  well  defended.  Prepara 
tions  were  making  to  march  the  army  down  to  take  that 
fort;  when  in  the  evening,  an  explosion  was  heard  and 
flames  were  seen  proceeding  from  the  same  direction. 
General  Jackson  soon  heard  by  a  prisoner,  (which  af 
terwards  proved  to  be  the  fact,  the  general  having 
sent  to  the  spot  fo  reconnoitre)  that  the  British  had 
persuaded  the  Spanish  commandant  to  blow  up  the 
fortifications,  and  to  retreat  to  the  Havanna,  with  all 
his  force,  amounting  to  three  or  four  hundred  men. 

The  British  shipping  by  this  occurrence  dropped 
down  unmolested,  and  put  to  sea.  The  following 
was  the  situation  of  affairs.  The  British  expelled 
from  Pensacola  bay;  the  Indians  wandering  in  those 
low  islands,  perishing  for  want  of  food;  the  Spaniards 
punished  for  their  want  of  good  faith,  and  taught  by 
sad  experience,  that  they  could  not  expect  to  injure 
their  peaceable  neighbours  with  impunity.  On  the 
other  hand,  the  American  army,  composed  of  about 
four  thousand  men,  of  whom  one  thousand  were 
mounted,  could  be  supplied  only  by  land  conveyance 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  51 

(the  British  commanding  the  sea)  from  a  country 
which  was  itself  in  want  of  provisions: — the  winter 
was  setting  in. — The  object  of  the  expedition  being 
accomplished,  the  major-general  seeing  that  the  pre 
sence  of  most  of  the  troops  would  be  wanted  for  the 
defence  of  New  Orleans,  determined  to  withdraw 
them  from  the  Spanish  territory,  and  march  the  army 
back  to  Mobile  and  New  Orleans.  The  army  set 
out  on  the  9th  of  November,  for  fort  Montgomery  on 
the  Alabama,  whence  the  troops  were  marched  to 
their  respective  destinations,  and  the  general,  after 
jiaving  made  some  dispositions  at  Mobile  for  the 
protection  of  that  place,  set  out  the  21st  November, 
by  land,  and  arrived  at  New  Orleans  the  2d  of  De 
cember,  1814. 


The  legislature  of  the  state  of  Louisiana,  which 
had  convened  by  the  governor's  proclamation  of  the 
5th  of  October,  met  on  the  10th  of  November.  The 
following  day,  the  governor  delivered  to  both  houses, 
a  speech,  on  which  the  limits  of  this  work  do  not 
permit  us  to  enlarge;  we  shall,  therefore,  merely  ob 
serve,  that  after  taking  a  cursory  view  of  the  military 
events  that  had  taken  place  from  the  commencement 
of  the  war,  and  particularly  during  the  last  campaign, 
the  governor  informed  the  legislature  of  the  well- 
founded  apprehensions  entertained  of  an  attack  on 
Louisiana  by  the  British,  with  a  force,  as  was  pre 
sumed,  of  from  twelve  to  fifteen  thousand  men.  The 
governor  next  entered  into  minute  details  as  to  the 


52  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

forces  we  had  to  oppose  to  those  of  the  enemy.  He 
informed  the  legislature,  that  the  troops  which  had 
already  taken  the  field,  were  shortly  to  be  joined  by 
considerable  reinforcements  of  Tennessee  and  Ken 
tucky  militia.  He  expressed  his  satisfaction  at  the 
zeal,  patriotism,  and  military  ardour,  displayed  by  the 
inhabitants  of  the  country,  in  this  critical  conjuncture; 
commended  the  alacrity  with  which  the  several  militia 
officers  had  effected  the  levy  of  the  quota  of  militia 
called  out;  and  bestowed  particular  expressions  of 
commendation,  on  the  zeal  of  the  inhabitants  of  Attak- 
apas  and  Feliciana,  who  had  already  formed  two 
companies  of  cavalry. 

The  governor  finally  recommended  to  the  legisla 
ture  to  order  the  expenses  to  be  incurred  by  the  move 
ments  of  the  militia,  in  the  event  of  the  enemy's  effect 
ing  a  landing  in  any  part  of  the  state,  to  be  advanced 
out  of  the  state  treasury,  saving  a  claim  on  the  general 
government  for  the  reimbursement  of  the  sums  ad 
vanced. 

On  the  2d  of  December,  general  Jackson  arrived 
at  New  Orleans,  where  he  established  his  head-quar 
ters.  On  the  same  day  he  reviewed  the  battalion  of 
the  uniform  companies  of  New  Orleans  militia,  com 
manded  by  major  Daquin.  The  military  appearance 
of  those  companies,  completely  equipped,  and  the 
precision  of  their  manoeuvres,  gave  the  general  great 
pleasure,  and  he  testified  his  satisfaction  to  the  offi- 
cers.  From  that  day  the  general  foresaw  what  he 
might  expect  from  that  gallant  battalion;  and  we  shall 
see  in  the  course  of  the  campaign  that  it  realized  bh 
expectations. 


UNP 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  53 

The  situation  of  our  country  at  that  period,  owing 
to  the  proximity  of  the  enemy  —  the  number  of  whose 
ships  of  war  on  our  coast  was  daily  increasing  —  was 
critical  in  the  extreme:  but  the  unbounded  confidence 
which  the  nation  in  general  had  in  the  talents  of  gene 
ral  Jackson,  made  us  all  look  up  to  that  officer,  as  a 
commander  destined  to  lead  our  troops  to  victory, 
and  to  save  our  country.  It  is  hardly  possible  to  form 
an  idea  of  the  change  which  his  arrival  produced  on 
the  minds  of  the  people.  Hitherto  partial  attempts 
had  been  made  to  adopt  measures  of  defence;  the 
legislature  had  appointed  a  joint  committee  of  both 
houses,  to  concert  with  the  governor,  commodore 
Patterson,  and  the  military  cqmmandant,  such  mea 
sures  as  they  should  deem  most  expedient;  but  nothing 
had  been  done.  There  was  wanting  that  concen 
tration  of  power,  so  necessary  for  the  success  of  mili-. 
tary  operations.  The  citizens,  having  very  little  con 
fidence  in  their  civil  or  military  authorities,  for  the 
defence  of  the  country,  were  filled  with  distrust  and 
gloomy  apprehension.  Miserable  disputes  on  account 
of  two  different  committees  of  defence;  disputes,  un 
fortunately  countenanced  by  the  presence  and  influ 
ence  of  several  public  officers,  had  driven  the  peo 
ple  to  despondency;  they  complained,  and  not  with 
out  cause,  that  the  legislature  wasted  time,  and  con 
sumed  the  money  of  the  state,  in  idle  discussions  on 
empty  formalities  of  election,  while  all  their  time,  and 
all  the  wealth  they  squandered,  might  be  profitably 
employed  in  the  defence  of  the  country.  Credit 
w  annihilated  —  already  for  several  months  had  the 
banks  suspended  the  payment  of  their  notes;  to  sup- 


54  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

ply  the  want  of  specie,  one  and  three  dollar  notes  had 
been  issued,  and  dollars  had  been  cut  as  a  substitute 
for  small  change.  On  the  banks'  refusing  specie, 
the  monied  men  had  drawn  in  their  funds,  which 
they  no  longer  lent  out,  without  an  usurious  interest 
of  three  or  four  per  cent,  per  month.  Every  one  was 
distressed;  confidence  had  ceased;  and  with  it,  almost 
every  species  of  business. 

Our  situation  seemed  desperate.  In  case  of  an 
attack,  we  could  hope  to  be  saved  only  by  a  miracle, 
or  by  the  wisdom  and  genius  of  a  commander-m- 
chief.  Accordingly,  on  his  arrival,  he  was  immedi 
ately  invested  with  the  confidence  of  the  public,  and 
all  hope  centered  in  him.  We  shall,  hereafter,  see  how 
amply  he  merited  the  confidence  which  he  inspired. 

With  his  usual  activity,  adhering  to  his  constant 
practice  of  seeing  every  thing  himself,  as  far  as  prac 
ticable,  general  Jackson,  the  second  clay  after  his  ar 
rival,  set  out  to  visit  fort  St.  Philip,  at  Plaquemines, 
and  to  examine  what  parts  of  the  river  below  New 
Orleans,  it  might  be  expedient  to  fortify.  Previous 
ly  to  his  departure,  he  had  sent  orders  to  governor 
Claiborne  to  cause  all  the  bayous  leading  from  the 
ocean  into  the  interior  of  the  country,  to  be  obstruct 
ed.  This  measure  had  been  ordered  to  be  executed 
along  the  whole  coast,  from  Attakapas  to  Chef-Men- 
teur  and  Manchac. 

On  visiting  fort  St.  Philip,  the  general  ordered 
the  demolition  of  the  wooden  barracks  within  the  fort, 
several  additional  pieces  of  artillery  to  be  mounted  on 
the  rampart,  and  a  thirty-two  pounder  and  a  mortar 
in  the  covered  wav.  He  also  ordered  two  batteries 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  55 

to  be  constructed,  the  one  opposite  the  fort  on  the 
right  bank,  on  the  site  of  tire  former  fort  Bourbon, 
and  the  other  half  a  mile  above  the  fort,  and  on  the 
same  bank.  These  batteries  were  to  be  mounted 
with  twenty-four  pounders.  The  latter,  in  particu 
lar,  was  in  a  situation  extremely  advantageous  for 
commanding  the  river,  and  could  join  its  fire  with 
that  of  fort  St.  Philip. 

On  his  return  to  New  Orleans,  the  general  ordered 
me  to  draw  out  the  necessary  plans  for  those  two 
batteries,  which  plans  being  drawn  out  and  approved 
of  by  him,  the  necessary  measures  were  taken  for 
putting  them  into  immediate  execution.  General 
Jackson  proceeded  to  visit  Chef-Menteur,  and  having 
gone  as  far  as  the  confluence  of  the  bayou  Sauvage 
and  the  river  of  Chef-Menteur,  he  ordered  the  erec 
tion  of  a  battery  at  that  point. 

In  the  evening  of  the  13th  of  December,  commo 
dore  Patterson  received  information  that  the  naval 
forces  of  the  enemy  at  anchor  at  Ship  island,  were 
increased  to  thirty  sail,  of  which  six  were  ships  of 
the  line;  that  others  were  every  moment  arriving,  es 
pecially  a  number  of  light  vessels,  calculated  for 
navigating  on  our  coast  where  there  is  but  little  water, 
and  that  the  enemy  appeared  to  be  sounding  the 
passes. 

The  general  wrote  on  the  10th  to  the  governor  of 
the  state,  and  informed  him  of  his  return  from  visiting 
the  posts  down  the  river  as  far  as  fort  St.  Philip.  In  that 
letter  he  observes  that  the  river  is  capable  of  being 
well  defended,  provided  suitable  batteries  be  raised 
on  its  banks;  and  that  he  has  fixed  on  the  points  on 


56  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

nvhich  they  ought  to  be  erected.  The  general  prei- 
poses  to  the  governor  to  call  on  the  patriotism  of  the 
members  of  the  legislature,  to  assist  him  in  the  pre 
sent  conjuncture,  with  all  the  means  in  their  power. 
As  the  works  to  be  raised  chiefly  consist  of  earth 
thrown  up,  he  is  of  opinion  that  it  would  be  expe 
dient  to  suggest  to  the  planters  the  propriety  of  fur 
nishing  their  gangs  of  negroes,  to  be  employed  for  a 
certain  time  in  those  works.  He  thinks  the  impor 
tance  of  the  subject  worthy  the  immediate  attention 
of  the  legislature,  who,  he  hopes,  will  not  delay  a  mo 
ment  to  furnish  means  for  putting  the  country  in  a 
state  of  defence,  by  the  erection  of  the  fortifications 
contemplated.  These,  when  completed,  the  general 
thinks,  will  secure  the  river  against  the  attacks  of  the 
enemy;  but  not  a  moment,  says  he,  is  to  be  lost  in 
perfecting  the  defence  of  the  Mississippi.  With 
vigour,  energy,  and  expedition,  all  is  safe;  delay  may 
lose  all. 

The  general  concludes  by  requesting  the  governor 
to  let  him  know,  as  soon  as  possible,  what  the  legisla 
ture  is  disposed  to  do,  to  assist  him  in  erecting  the  for 
tifications;  he  instances  to  him  as  a  bright  example, 
what  had  been  done  in  New  York.  In  case  the  legisla 
ture  should  not  be  able  to  realize  the  expectations  he 
had  conceived  from  their  patriotism,  the  general  wishes 
to  know  it,  that  he  may  make  arrangements  according 
to  the  means  he  possesses,  for  the  defence  of  the 
country. 

On  the  14th  of  December,  governor  Claiborne 
addressed  a  circular  letter  to  the  inhabitants  of  the 
parishes  of  Plaquemines,  St.  Bernard,  St.  Charles,  and 
St.  John  the  Baptist,  informing  them  of  a  resolution 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR,  57 

passed  by  the  legislature,  requiring  the  governor  to 
call  upon  the  inhabitants  of  such  parishes  as  he  might 
think  proper,  to  send  all  such  male  negroes  as  they 
could  dispose  of  to  fort  St.  Charles  or  to  the  En 
glish  Turn,  to  be  thence  sent  to  the  different  points 
that  might  be  judged  proper  to  be  fortified,  there  to 
work  on  the  fortifications.  The  governor  in  his  cir 
cular  letter,  makes  known  to  the  inhabitants,  that  the 
state  is  in  danger,  that  the  enemy  is  in  considerable 
force  on  our  coast,  and  that  his  movements  indi 
cate  a  disposition  to  land.  He  concludes  by  ex 
pressing  his  reliance  on  the  patriotism  of  the  in 
habitants,  and  his  hopes  that  in  the  hour  of  peril,  the 
voice  of  government  will  be  listened  to  and  respect 
ed  by  every  good  citizen. 

CAPTURE  OF  THE  GUN-BOATS. 

THE  arrival  of  a  great  number  of  the  enemy's 
ships  of  various  force  on  our  eastern  coast,  sufficiently 
announced  the  intention  of  the  British,  soon  to  make 
an  attack  in  this  quarter.  Commodore  Daniel  T* 
Patterson,  commanding  the  New  Orleans  station, 
had  received  from  Pensacola,  a  letter,  dated  the  5th 
of  December,  informing  him  of  the  arrival  of  sixty 
sail  of  British  vessels,  and  of  a  still  greater  num 
ber  being  expected;  that  those  vessels  had  on  board 
a  considerable  number  of  troops  destined  to  act 
against  New  Orleans.  (See  Appendix,  No.  18.) 
On  this  information,  the  commodore  had  sent  five 
gun-boats,  one  tender,  and  a  despatch  boat,  towards 
the  passes  Mariana  and  Christiana,  to  watch  the  ene- 

1 


58  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

my's  movements  in  that  quarter.  The  command  of 
this  flotilla  was  given  to  Thomas  Asp.  Catesby  Jones, 
who  hoisted  his  flag  on  board  gun-boat  No.  156. 
Commodore  Patterson's  instructions  directed  that, 
if  possible,  it  would  be  well  to  wait  for  the  enemy's 
barges,  lanches,  and  pinnaces  on  the  outside  of  the 
Rigolets;  that  perhaps  the  enemy  would  endeavour 
to  cut  off  the  gun-boats  with  his  small  craft,  and  that 
if  his  forces  were  too  considerable,  it  was  not  advisa 
ble  to  remain  too  long  at  the  same  anchoring  ground, 
at  that  time  between  Ship  and  Cat  islands,  and 
that  it  was  important  to  secure  a  retreat  at  the  Rigo 
lets,  where  they  must  wait  for  the  enemy,  and  sink 
him  or  be  sunk.  The  commodore  particularly  re 
commended  the  most  vigilant  attention  in  watching 
the  enemy's  movements,  directing  information  there 
of  to  be  sent  to  him  as  frequently  as  possible. 

Pursuant  to  his  instructions,  lieutenant  Jones  had 
detached  gun-boats  No.  23,  lieutenant  M'Keever, 
and  No.  163,  sailing-master  Ulrick,  to  Dauphine 
island.  On  the  9th  of  December,  these  two  vessels 
being  at  anchor  within  the  island,  espied  two  ships 
of  war  out  at  sea,  steering  westward.  The  two  gun 
boats  immediately  set  sail,  and  accompanied  them, 
keeping  within  the  island  till  night;  when  the  ships 
appeared  to  come  to  an  anchor,  the  gun-boats  continu 
ed  on  their  course,  and  joined  company,  opposite  Bi- 
loxi,  with  the  three  other  gun-boats  Nos.  5,  156  and 
1 62,  which  composed  the  whole  flotilla.  They  made 
sail  the  whole  night,  apprehending  that  if  they  remain 
ed  at  anchor,  the  enemy  might  send  barges  in  the 
night  to  take  them. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.     ,  59 

On  the  10th,  by  break  of  day,  they  discovered  an 
entire  fleet  of  the  enemy's  vessels  at  anchor  in  the 
channel  between  Cat-island  and  Ship-island;  on  which 
the  gun- boats  made  for  pass  Mariana,  within  which 
they  anchored,  and  received  provisions  from  the  bay 
St.  Louis. 

On  the  llth  they  remained  at  anchor  the  whole 
day,  and  put  the  gun- boats  in  the  best  condition  to 
sustain  an  attack;  and  on  the  12th  they  made  sail 
towards  the  eastern  point  of  Cat-island,  whence  they 
discovered  the  enemy's  fleet  so  considerably  increas 
ed,  that  it  would  have  been  imprudent  to  continue  any 
longer  where  they  then  were. 

On  the  13th  the  gun- boats  sailed  for  the  bay  St. 
Louis.  At  4  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  were  disco- 
vered  a  considerable  number  of  the  enemy's  barges 
making  for  pass  Christiana;  upon  which,  agreeably  to 
instructions,  the  gun-boats  endeavoured  to  make  for 
the  Rigolets;  but  the  wind  having  died  away,  and  the 
current  making  strong  towards  the  east,  they  could 
get  no  farther  than  the  channel  between  the  main 
land  and  Isle  aux  Malheureux,  where  they  were 
obliged  to  come  to  an  anchor  about  2  after  midnight. 

Sailing-master  Johnson,  commanding  the  Sea 
horse  tender,  was  then  in  the  bay  St.  Louis  for  the 
purpose  of  protecting  the  public  stores  established  on 
its  western  shore,  when  he  was  attacked  that  same  day 
by  several  of  the  enemy's  barges.  He  was  supported 
in  his  defence  by  a  battery  of  two  six -pounders,  and 
some  of  the  enemy's  barges  were  destroyed;  but 
at  last  captain  Johnson  was  forced  to  yield  to  num 
bers,  and  set  fire  to  his  vessel,  as  likewise  to  the  public 


60  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

stores,  to  prevent  their  falling  into  the  hands  of  the 
enemy. 

On  the  14th,  by  break  of  day,  were  discovered, 
five  miles  to  the  eastward,  a  great  number  of  barges 
formed  in  a  line,  which  came  to  and  laid  on  their 
graplings  for  about  fifteen  minutes,  after  which  they 
sdvanced  in  a  line  of  about  forty-five  barges  and  other 
craft  in  front,  to  attack  the  gun-boats.  Lieutenant 
M'Keever's,  No.  23,  carrying  a  thirty-two  pounder, 
tried  immediately  to  fire  on  the  barges,  but  the  ball 
could  not  reach  them.  "  A  small  division  of  them 
made  for  the  tender  Alligator,  which  had  been  pre 
vented  by  the  calm  from  joining  the  gun-boats,  and 
was  at  anchor  two  miles  from  them,  to  the  southeast  of 
Malheureux  island.  Having  taken  the  Alligator,  the 
division  rejoined  the  flotilla,  which  continued  to  ad 
vance  in  line  of  battle,  until  they  got  so  near  that  the 
fire  from  the  gun-boats  began  to  produce  some  confu 
sion;  on  which  they  separated  into  three  divisions.  One 
of  these  consisting  of  fifteen  barges,  attacked  commo 
dore  Jones's  gun-boat,  No.  156,  at  anchor  half  a  ca 
ble's  length  from  the  others,  in  the  centre  towards 
the  enemy.  The  others  divided  so  as  to  attack  all 
the  gun-boats  at  once.  By  half  after  eleven  in  the 
forenoon,  the  attack  became  general,  and  after  three 
quarters  of  an  hour  of  a  most  vigorous  resistance, 
made  by  one  hundred  and  eighty -two  men,  including 
officers  distributed  in  the  different  gun-boats,  against 
about  twelve  hundred  of  the  enemy  in  very  large 
barges  and  other  craft,  carrying  nine  and  tweive- 
pounders  and  twenty-four  pound  carroriades,  the  gun 
boats  were  forced  to  strike,  after  having  lost  six  men, 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  61 

and  thirty-five  being  wounded,  many  of  them  se 
verely.     (See  Atlas,  plate  No.  4.) 

Lieutenant  Jones  who  commanded  the  flotilla, 
was  wounded  in  the  left  shoulder.  Lieutenant  R. 
Spidden  was  wounded  in  both  his  arms,  one  of  which 
it  was  necessary  to  amputate;  and  lieutenant  M'Kee- 
ver  was  also  wounded,  'but  slightly.  The  ene 
my  having  got  possession  of  one  of  the  gun-boats, 
fired  several  shot  from  her  upon  the  others,  without 
striking  the  American  flag.  The  enemy's  loss  was 
very  considerable,  amounting,  it  is  supposed,  to  up 
wards  of  three  hundred  men.  Nor  will  this  estimate 
appear  exaggerated  when  it  is  considered  that  a  great 
number  of  barges  and  lanches  were  sunk.  One  of 
the  latter,  with  a  crew  of  one  hundred  and  eighty  men, 
went  down  astern  of  No.  156. 

In  the  report  made  by  lieutenant  Jones  to  commo 
dore  Patterson,  (see  Appendix  No.! 9)  and  transmit 
ted  by  the  latter  to  the  secretary  of  war,  may  be  seen 
all  the  particulars  of  the  obstinate  resistance  made  by 
the  officers  and  crews  of  the  gun- boats,  notwithstand 
ing  the  disadvantageous  circumstances  under  which 
they  were  attacked.  Amongst  these  was  a  very  strong 
current  running  against  them,  while  several  of  them 
were  sunk  eighteen  inches  in  the  mud,  so  that  it  was 
impossible  to  manoeuvre  against  barges  almost  as  large 
as  the  gun-boats  themselves.  It  is  presumable  that 
had  not  the  wind  died  away,  the  gun- boats  under  sai!5 
would  have  destroyed  the  flotilla,  though  numerous 
and  well  armed.  The  British  during  the  fight  ma 
noeuvred  verv  skilfully,  and  as  soon  as  they  became 


62  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

masters  of  any  gun-boat,  they  directed  her  fire  against 
such  of  the  others  as  had  not  struck. 

The  observation,  which  a  due  regard  to  truth  com 
pelled  me  to  make  at  the  beginning  of  this  work,  re 
specting  the  defenceless  state  in  which  Louisiana  was 
found  at  the  time  of  its  invasion,  here  forces  itself 
again  upon  me.  But  it  is  far  from  my  intention  to  im 
pute  any  fault  to  those  whose  conduct  exempted  them 
from  censure.  Probably  a  concurrence  of  untoward 
circumstances,  unknown  to  me,  may  have  occasioned 
the  apparent  neglect  of  Louisiana.  No  one  is  more 
disposed  than  I  am  to  render  justice  to  the  patriotism, 
activity  and  zeal  displayed  by  the  heads  of  the  differ 
ent  departments  of  our  administration  during  the 
whole  course  of  the  war,  which  is  now  so  happily  ter 
minated:  nor  is  any  one  more  ready  to  acknowledge 
the  firmness  and  wisdom  that  so  strongly  marked  the 
line  of  conduct  pursued  by  our  worthy  president. 
Twenty-five  gun- boats,  however,  might  at  that  time 
have  saved  Louisiana,  by  rendering  it  impossible  for 
the  British  to  land,  and  obliging  them  to  abandon  the 
project  of  attacking  New  Orleans  by  the  lakes.  In 
that  case,  the  enemy  would  have  been  forced  to  take 
post  at  Mobile,  in  order  to  carry  on  the  war  by 
land  in  the  Floridas.  And  fortunate  it  would  have 
been  for  us,  had  he  pursued  this  course,  and  much  it 
is  to  be  wished  he  may  attempt  it,  should  our  country 
ever  hereafter  be  at  war  with  Great  Britain.  I  pre 
dict  that  all  the  British  troops  that  may  attempt  to 
march  through  the  pine-barrens  of  Florida,  will  find 
their  graves  there;  and  for  the  accomplishment  of  my 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  63 

prediction,  I  would  rely  entirely  on  Tennessee  rifle 
men. 

Commodore  Patterson,  who  had  served  several 
years  on  the  New  Orleans  station,  which  he  had  com 
manded  from  nearly  the  commencement  of  the  war, 
was  perfectly  acquainted  with  our  coast,  and  conse 
quently  knew  what  means  were  necessary  to  defend 
it.  On  this  subject  he  had  written,  at  an  early  peri 
od,  and  several  times  since,  to  the  secretary  of  the 
navy.  At  Tchifonte,  on  the  eastern  shore  of  lake 
Pontchartrain,  a  flat- bottomed  frigate  had  been  begun 
to  be  built,  two  years  before,  calculated  for  the  navi 
gation  of  the  lakes  and  of  our  coasts.  She  was  to  car 
ry  forty-two  pieces  of  cannon,  twenty-six  of  which 
were  to  be  thirty. two  pounders.  The  building  of 
this  frigate  was  suspended  in  consequence,  I  believe, 
of  the  representations  of  brigadier-general  Flournoy? 
then  commanding  this  district.  From  his  first  tak 
ing  the  command  of  the  station,  commodore  Patter- 
son  had  not  ceased  to  solicit  government  to  author 
ize  him  to  have  that  frigate  finished.  Governor 
Claiborne's  correspondence  with  the  heads  of  the  dif 
ferent  departments  was  also  to  the  same  effect;  but 
though  much  was  promised,  nothing  was  performed. 
It  might  have  been  thought,  from  the  little  regard  that 
was  paid  to  the  representations  of  the  superior  offi 
cers  of  the  district,  and  of  our  representatives  in  con 
gress,  that  Louisiana  was  considered  as  a  bastard  child 
of  the  American  family;  or  that  to  attack  her  was 
looked  upon  as  an  impossibility.  Yet  the  attack 
made  on  us  was  within  a  hair's  breadth  of  succeeding; 
for  had  the  enemy  appeared  a  few  weeks  sooner,  be- 


64  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

fore  general  Jackson  arrived  in  New  Orleans,  he 
might  have  entered  the  city  with  little  or  no  opposi 
tion,  there  being  no  means  of  resisting  him;  and  how 
ever  well  inclined  the  citizens  were  to  defend  them 
selves,  it  would  have  been  impossible  to  prevent  the 
taking  of  the  city.  The  capture  of  our  gun-boats 
having  left  our  coast  defenceless,  and  permitted  the 
enemy  to  choose  whatever  point  he  thought  most 
convenient  to  land  on,  it  became  necessary  to  redou 
ble  our  efforts  in  making  preparations  for  defence. 


General  Jackson  was  returning  from  a  tour  of 
observation  to  the  river  of  Chef-Menteur,  when  the 
intelligence  of  the  loss  of  the  gun-boats  reached  him. 
He  immediately  ordered  the  militia-battalion  of  men 
of  colour,  commanded  by  major  Lacoste,  and  the 
dragoons  of  Feliciana,  to  proceed  with  two  pieces  of 
cannon  and  take  post  at  the  confluence  of  bayou  Sau- 
vage  and  the  river  of  Chef-Menteur,  in  order  to  co 
ver  the  road  to  the  city  on  that  side,  and  watch  the 
enemy's  movements.  Major  Lacoste  was  also  or 
dered  to  erect  a  close  redoubt  surrounded  with  a 
fosse,  according  to  a  plan  which  I  drew  agreeably  to 
general  Jackson's  orders. 

On  his  arrival  in  town,  the  general  bent  his  at 
tention  to  the  fortifying  of  all  assailable  points,  it 
being  impossible  to  ascertain  which  the  enemy  would 
make  choice  of,  the  want  of  vessels  on  the  lake  depriv 
ing  us  of  all  means  of  obtaining  any  certain  intelli 
gence  of  his  movements,  before  he  could  effect  his 
landing. 

Captain  Newman  of  the  artillery,  who  commanded 
the  fort  of  Petites  Coquilles,  which  stands  at  the 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  65 

irtner  entry  of  the  pass  of  the  Rigolets,  towards  lake 
Pontchartrain,  was  positively  ordered  to  defend  his 
post  to  the  last  extremity,  and  in  case  of  his  not  be 
ing  able  to  hold  out,  to  spike  the  guns,  blow  up  the 
fort,  and  evacuate  on  the  post  of  Chef-Menteur. 

Capiain  P.  Jugeant  was  authorized  to  levy  and 
form  into  companies  all  the  Chactaw  Indians  he  could 
collect. 

On  the  15th  the  commander- in-chief  informed 
generals  Coffee,  Carrol  and  Thomas  of  the  taking  of 
the  gun-boats,  by  letters  sent~"5y*  express,  urging 
them  to  use  all  possible  speed  in  marching  to  New 
Orleans  with  the  troops  under  their  command. 

General  Winchester  commanding  at  Mobile,  was 
also  informed  of  the  loss  of  our  naval  force,  and  it 
was  earnestly  recommended  to  him  to  use  the  great 
est  vigilance  in  protecting  the  vicinity  of  that  town, 
as  the  enemy  might  endeavour  to  make  an  attack  in 
that  quarter. 

On  the  16th  general  Jackson  wrote  to  the  secre 
tary  of  war,  apprizing  him  of  the  capture  of  the  gun 
boats;  he  expressed  to  him  his  concern  for  the  conse 
quences  that  might  attend  that  event,  which  he  appre 
hended  might  happen,  when  he  wrote  to  government 
suggesting  the  propriety  of  giving  the  necessary  or 
ders  for  finishing  the  block-shipbuilding  at  Tchifonte, 
and  when  he  gave  orders  for  supplying  forts  Strother, 
Williams,  and  Jackson,  with  six  months  provisions. 
The  general  apprehended  lest  the  interruption  of  our 
communications  by  water  with  Mobile,  might  be  at 
tended  with  consequences  fatal  to  the  safety  of  the 

K 


00  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

country.  He  however  assured  the  secretary  of  war 
that,  should  the  enemy  effect  a  landing,  he  would, 
with  the  help  of  God,  do  all  he  could  to  repel  him, 
He  also  informed  the  secretary  that  neither  the 'Ten 
nessee  troops  nor  those  of  Kentucky  had  yet  arriv 
ed,  but  that  they  were  daily  expected,  and  that  in 
the  meanwhile  he  was  putting  the  river  below  the 
city  in  the  best  possible  state  of  deience.  He  ac~ 
quainted  him  with  the  taking  of  the  post  of  the  Balise, 
with  all  the  pilots,  and  a  detachment  of  troops  that  was 
there  stationed,  but  he  informed  him  at  the  same  time 
of  the  establishment  of  martial  law,  and  of  the  rising  of 
the  militia  in  mass.  "  The  country,"  said  the  general, 
"shall  be  defended,  if  in  the  power  of  the  physical  force 
it  contains,  with  the  auxiliary  force  ordered.  We  have 
no  arms  here—will  the  government  order  a  supply? 
If  it  will,  let  it  be  speedily.  Without  arms,  a  de 
ience  cannot  be  made." 

During  the  summer,  while  yet  among  the  Creeks, 
generalJackson  had  made  a  requisition  of  a  quantity  of 
arms,  ammunition,  heavy  cannon,  balls,  bombs,  &c. 
to  be  sent  to  New  Orleans;  but  such  was  the  fatality 
that  appeared  to  be  attached  to  all  the  measures  adopt 
ed  for  our  defence,  that  it  was  riot  till  the  middle  of 
January,  1815,  that  a  very  small  proportion  of  what 
had  been  ordered,  arrived  at  New  Orleans. 

A  special  law  of  the  state  had,  some  time  before, 
authorized  the  formation  of  a  battalion  of  free  men 
of  colour;  arid  we  have  seen  that  it  had  already  ta 
ken  the  field  under  the  command  of  major  Lacoste, 
and  had  been  stationed  at  Chef-Menteur.  Colonel  Mi- 

Ichael  Fortier,  senior,  a  respectable  and  worthy  citizen 
of  New  Orleans,  having  the  superior  command  of  all 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  67 

the  corps  of  men  of  colour,  presided  over  the  levy  ing  of 
a  new  battalion  of  the  same  description,  formed  by  the 
exertions  and  under  the  direction  of  the  gallant  captain 
Savary,  who  had  acquired  an  honourable  and  distin 
guished  reputation  in  the  wars  of  St.  Domingo.  It  was 
chiefly  with  refugees  from  that  island,  that  colonel  Sa 
vary  formed  that  battalion,  whose  officers  were  im 
mediately  commissioned  by  the  governor  of  the  state; 
and  its  command  was  confided  to  major  Daquin 
of  the  2d  regiment  of  militia.  We  shall  'hereafter 
see  in  the  relation  of  the  different  engagements, 
that  that  brave  corps  realized,  by  a  briiihnt  dis 
play  of  valour,  the  hopes  that  had  been  conceived 
of  it. 

The  capture  of  the  gun-boats  was  announced  to 
the  senate  and  house  of  representatives  of  the  state, 
by  a  message  from  the  governor:  "  I  lay  before  you," 
said  he,  "  a  letter  addressed  to  me  by  commodore 
Patterson,  announcing  the  capture  of  five  of  the  Unit- 
ed  States  gun- boats  of  the  New  Orleans  station,  by 
a  vastly  superior  force  of  the  enemy.  The  length  of 
the  combat  is  a  proof  of  the  valour  and  firmness  with 
which  our  gallant  tars  maintained  the  unequal  con 
test,  and  leaves  no  doubt  that,  although  compelled 
ultimately  to  strike,  their  conduct  has  been  such  as  to 
reflect  honour  upon  the  American  name  and  navy. 
The  ascendancy  which  the  enemy  has  now  acquired 
on  the  coast  of  the  lake,  increases  the  necessity  of 
enlarging  our  measures  of  defence." 

Commodore  Patterson  addressed  a  second  letter 
to  the  governor,  in  which  he  complained  of  the  want 


68  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

of  seamen  to  man  the  armed  vessels  then  at  New  Or- 
leans,  and  requested  the  support  and  assistance  of  the 
state  authorities.  This  letter  was  laid  by  the  gover 
nor  before  the  legislature,  who,  on  the day  of 

December,  passed  a  resolution  giving  a  bounty  of 
twenty -lour  dollars  to  each  seaman  who  would  enter 
the  service  of  the  United  States  for  three  months, 
and  to  this  end  placed  at  the  disposition  of  the  go 
vernor  six  thousand  dollars.  The  governor  forth 
with  issued  his  proclamation  i  (see  Appendix  No.  19.) 
Between  seventy  and  eighty  sailors  received  the 
bounty  of  the  state,  and  were  of  the  number  of  those 
brave  tars  who,  by  their  incessant  lire  from  the  ship 
Louisiana  and  the  schooner  Carolina,  so  annoyed  the 
enemy  in  all  his  movements,  and  so  particularly  ha 
rassed  him  on  the  night  of  the  23d  of  December,  as 
will  be  seen  hereafter.* 

On  the  18th  of  December,  general  Jackson  re 
viewed  the  New  Orleans  militia,  the  first  and  second 
regiments,  the  battalion  of  uniform  companies  under 
the  command  of  major  Piatiche,  and  part  of  the  free 
men  of  colour.  Addresses  were  read  to  them,  and  an 
swered  with  acclamations  of  applause.  My  voice  is 
too  weak  to  speak  of  these  addresses  in  adequate 
terms;  I  leave  the  reader  to  form  an  idea  of  the  effect 
they  must  have  produced  on  the  minds  of  the  militia, 
from  the  impression  that  the  mere  perusal  of  them 
will  make  on  himself.  (See  Appendix,  No.  20.) 

*  On  a  representation  made  by  the  governor  on  the  16th  of 
December,  the  state  legislature  passed  a  law  laying  an  embargo 
for  three  days,  to  facilitate  to  commodore  Patterson  the  mean,* 
of  enlisting  sailors. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  69 

These  corps  had  two  days  before  entered  upon  ac 
tual  service,  and  did  regular  duty  like  troops  of  the 
line.  On  the  18th,  Plauche's  battalion  was  sent  to 
bayou  St.  John,  and  the  major  took  the  command 
of  that  post. 

A  general  order  of  this  day  enjoined  all  officers 
commanding  detachments,  out -posts,  and  pickets,  on 
the  approach  of  the  enemy,  to  remove  out  of  his  reach 
every  kind  of  stock,  horses,  &c.  and  provisions;  and 
directed  them  upon  their  responsibility  to  oppose  the 
invaders  at  every  point,  and  harass  them  by  all  pos 
sible  means.  Jt  concluded  with  this  animating  sen 
tence: 

"  The  major-general  anticipating  that  the  enemy 
will  penetrate  into  this  district  in  a  few  days,  requests 
of  the  people  of  Louisiana  to  do  their  duty  cheerfully, 
and  bear  the  fatigues  incident  to  a  state  of  war,  as  be 
comes  a  great  people,  anticipating  from  the  ardour  per 
vading,  and  the  present  help  at  hand,  to  make  an  easy 
conquest  of  them,  and  teach  them  in  future  to  respect 
the  rights  of  liberty  and  the  property  of  freemen." 

The  garrison  of  fort  St.  John,  on  lake  Pontchar- 
train,  had  been  reinforced  by  the  volunteer  company 
of  light  artillery,  under  the  command  of  lieutenant 
Wagner. 

By  an  order  of  the  day  of  the  19th,  the  command 
er- in- chief  ordered  several  persons  confined  in  the 
different  military  prisons,  for  having  violated  the  laws 
of  the  country,  to  be  set  at  liberty,  on  their  offering 
to  take  up  arms  in  defence  of  the  country. 

But  that  favour  was  restricted  to  such  persons  as 
were  within  two  months  of  completing  the  term  of 


70  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

imprisonment  to  which  they  had  been  condemned. 
These  and  all  others  not  under  sentence  were,  in  pur 
suance  of  that  order,  set  at  liberty  by  the  command 
ing  officers  at  fort  St.  Charles,  the  barracks,  and  the 
powder  magazine. 

The  country  being  now  in  imminent  danger,  it 
became  necessary  to  adopt  the  most  vigorous  mea 
sures  to  prevent  all  communication  with  the  enemy; 
and  in  order  that  such  persons  as  might  be  apprehend 
ed  for  having  given  the  British  information  as  to  the 
situation  of  the  country,  its  means  of  defence  in 
troops,  artillery,  fortifications,  &c.  might  not  es 
cape  punishment,  general  Jackson  wrote  to  the 
governor,  suggesting  to  him  the  propriety  of  his 
recommending  to  the  legislature  to  suspend  the 
writ  of  habeas  corpus.  As  the  danger  was  daily 
increasing,  the  general  could  not,  without  expo 
sing  the  safety  of  the  country,  whose  defence  was 
committed  to  him,  wait  till  the  dilatory  forms  of  de 
liberation  should  empower  him  to  take  the  steps  ne 
cessary  for  saving  it.  Nor  did  it  escape  his  penetra 
tion  that  the  legislature  was  not  disposed  to  second 
his  views,  by  that  energetic  measure.  The  hour  of 
combat  grew  near,  that  of  discussing,  deliberating, 
and  referring  to  committees,  had  gone  by.  The  time 
called  for  action  and  promptitude;  and  accordingly 
general  Jackson  proclaimed  martial  law,  (see  Appen 
dix,  No.  21.)  and  from  that  moment  his  means  be 
came  more  commensurate  with  the  weight  of  responsi 
bility  he  had  to  sustain.  The  object  of  his  commis 
sion  was  to  save  the  country;  and  this,  he  was  sensi 
ble,  could  never  be  effected  by  half- measures.  It  was 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  71 

necessary  that  all  the  forces,  all  orders,  all  means  of 
opposition  to  be  directed  against  the  enemy,  should 
receive  their  impulse  from  the  centre  of  the  circum 
ference  they  occupied.  They  ought  to  be  radii,  di 
verging  from  one  and  the  same  point,  and  not  entang 
ling  chords  intersecting  that  circumference  and  each 
other.  From  the  moment  martial  law  was  proclaimed, 
every  thing  proceeded  with  order  and  regularity,  nor 
did  any  of  our  means  prove  abortive.  Every  individu 
al  was  stationed  at  his  proper  post.  The  guard  of  the 
city  was  committed  to  the  corps  of  veterans  and  fire- 
engine  men,  who  were  to  occupy  the  barracks,  hospi 
tals,  and  other  posts,  as  soon  as  the  troops  of  the  line 
and  the  militia  should  be  commanded  on  service  out 
of  town. 

The  privateers  of  Barataria,  and  all  persons  arrest 
ed  for,  or  accused  of,  any  infraction  of  the  revenue 
laws,  sent  to  tender  their  services  to  general  Jackson. 
Mr.  J.  Lafitte,  adhering  to  the  line  of  conduct  he  had 
marked  out  for  himself,  and  from  which  he  had  never 
deviated  from  the  beginning  of  September,  when  the 
British  officers  made  him  proposals,  waited  on  the 
commander-in-chief,  who,  in  consideration  of  the 
eventful  crisis,  had  obtained  for  him  a  safe  conduct 
from  judge  Hall,  and  from  the  marshal  of  the  dis 
trict. 

Mr.  Lafitte  solicited  for  himself  and  for  all  the  Ba- 
ratarians,  the  honour  of  serving  under  our  banners, 
that  they  might  have  an  opportunity  of  proving  that 
if  they  had  infringed  the  revenue  laws,  yet  none  were 
more  ready  than  they  to  defend  the  country  and 
combat  its  enemies. 


72  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

Persuaded  that  the  assistance  of  these  men  could 
not  fail  of  being  very  useful,  the  general  accepted  their 
offers.  Some  days  after,  a  certain  number  of  them 
formed  a  corps  under  the  command  of  captains  Do 
minique  and  Beluche,  and  were  employed  during  the 
whole  campaign  at  the  lines,  where,  with  distinguish- 
ed  skill,  they  served  two  twenty-four  pounders,  bat 
teries  Nos.  3  and  4.  Others  enlisted  in  one  or  other 
of  the  three  companies  of  mariners,  raiser]  by  captains 
Songis,  Lagaud,  and  Colson.  The  first  of  these  com 
panies  was  sent  to  the  fort  of  Petites  Coquilles,  the 
second  to  that  of  St.  Philip,  and  the  third  to  bayou 
St.  John. 

All  classes  of  society  were  now  animated  with 
the  most  ardent  zeal.  The  young,  the  old,  women, 
children,  all  breathed  defiance  to  the  enemy,  firmly 
resolved  to  oppose  to  the  utmost  the  threatened  in 
vasion.  General  Jackson  had  electrified  all  hearts;  all 
were  sensible  of  the  approaching  danger;  but  they 
waited  its  presence  undismayed.  They  knew  that,  in 
a  few  days,  they  must  come  to  action  with  the  enemy; 
yet,  calm  and  unalarmed,  they  pursued  their  usual 
occupations,  interrupted  only  when  they  tranquilly 
left  their  homes  to  perform  military  duty  at  the  posts 
assigned  them.  It  was  known  that  the  enemy  was 
on  our  coast,  within  a  few  hours  sail  of  the  city,  with 
a  presumed  force  of  between  nine  and  ten  thousand 
men;  whilst  all  the  forces  we  had  yet  to  oppose  him 
amounted  to  no  more  than  one  thousand  regulars,  and 
from  four  to  five  thousand  militia. 

These  circumstances  were  publicly  known,  nor 
could  any  one  disguise  to  himself,  or  to  others,  the 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  73 

dangers  with  which  we  were  threatened.  Yet,  such 
was  the  universal  confidence,  inspired  by  the  activity 
and  decision  of  the  commander-in-chief,  added  to 
the  detestation  in  which  the  enemy  was  held,  and  the 
desire  to  punish  his  audacity,  should  he  presume  to 
land,  that  not  a  single  warehouse  or  shop  was  shut, 
nor  were  any  goods  or  valuable  effects  removed  from 
the  city.  At  that  period,  New  Orleans  presented  a 
very  affecting  picture  to  the  eyes  of  the  patrioty  and 
of  all  those  whose  bosoms  glow  with  the  feelings  of 
national  honour,  which  raise  the  mind  far  above  the 
vulgar  apprehension  of  personal  danger.  The  citizens 
were  preparing  for  battle  as  cheerfully  as  if  it  had  been 
a  party  of  pleasure,  each  in  his  vernacular  tongue 
singing  songs  of  victory.  The  streets  resounded 
with  Yankee  Doodle,  the  Marseilles  Hymn,  the  Chant 
du  Depart,  and  other  martial  airs,  while  those  who 
had  been  long  unaccustomed  to  military  duty,  were 
furbishing  their  arms  and  accoutrements.  Beauty 
applauded  valour,  and  promised  with  her  smiles  to 
reward  the  toils  of  the  brave.  Though  inhabiting  an 
open  town,  not  above  ten  leagues  from  the  enemy, 
and  never  till  now  exposed  to  war's  alarms,  the  fair 
sex  of  New  Orleans  were  animated  with  the  ardour  of 
their  defenders,  and  with  cheerful  serenity  at  the  sound 
of  the  drum,  presented  themselves  at  the  windows 
and  balconies,  to  applaud  the  troops  going  through 
their  evolutions,  and  to  encourage  their  husbands, 
sons,  fathers,  and  brothers,  to  protect  them  from  the 
insults  of  our  ferocious  enemies,  and  prevent  a  repe*- 
tition  of  the  horrors  of  Hampton. 


74 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 


The  several  corps  of  militia  were  constantly  ex 
ercising  from  morning  till  evening,  and  at  all  hours 
was  heard  the  sound  of  drums,  and  of  military  bands 
of  music.  New  Orleans  wore  the  appearance  of  a 
camp;  and  the  greatest  cheerfulness  and  concord  pre 
vailed  amongst  all  ranks  and  conditions  of  people. 
All  countenances  expressed  a  wish  to  come  to  an  en 
gagement  with  the  enemy,  and  announced  a  foretaste 
of  victory. 

Commodore  Patterson  sent  gun-boat  No.  65  to 
fort  St.  Philip.  Lieutenant  Cunningham  who  com 
manded  it,  had  orders  to  send  an  armed  boat  to  the 
Balise,  for  the  purpose  of  bringing  up  the  custom 
house  officer,  and  of  ascertaining,  if  possible,  the  ene 
my's  force.  He  was  further  directed  to  give  to  the 
commanding  officer  at  Plaquemine  all  the  assistance  in 
his  power.  The  commodore  ordered  captain  W.  B. 
Carrol,  the  officer  who  had  the  command  of  the  navy- 
yard  at  Tchifonte,  to  cause  the  brig  ^Etna  to  ascend 
the  bayou,  and  take  a  station  opposite  the  unfinished 
block-ship,  for  the  defence  of  the  latter,  in  case  of  the 
approach  of  the  enemy.  Captain  Carrol  was  further 
ordered  not  to  suffer  any  boat  to  leave  Tchifonte 
for  the  bayou  St.  John,  without  a  passport,  and  in  the 
event  of  the  enemy's  entering  lake  Pontchartrain,  not 
to  let  the  mail-boat  pass. 

Mr.  J.  Shields,  purser,  and  doctor  R.  Morrell, 
surgeon  of  the  navy,  were  sent,  on  the  15th  Decem 
ber,  at  night,  by  commodore  Patterson,  with  a  flag  of 
truce,  to  the  British  fleet,  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining, 
correct  information  as  to  the  situation  of  the  officers 
and  crews  made  prisoners  on  board  the  gun-boats, 
and  of  endeavouring  to  obtain  their  being  suffered  to 


HISTORICAL    MEMOIR, 


75 


return  to  town  on  parole.  Doctor  Morrell  was  like 
wise  sent  to  administer  his  professional  assistance  to 
the  wounded.  On  the  following  day,  near  the  eastern 
branch  of  Pearl  river,  they  fell  in  with  gun-boat  No.  5, 
one  of  those  taken.  Shortly  after  they  went  on  board 
the  frigate  Seahorse,  captain  Gordon,  to  whom  they 
stated  the  object  of  their  mission,  and  by  whom  they 
were  sent  in  a  tender  to  admiral  Cochrane,  who  com 
manded  the  squadron.  They  met  the  admiral  in  his 
barge,  who  having  read  commodore  Patterson's  let 
ter  and  the  credentials  he  had  given  to  those  gentle 
men,  returned  the  letter  without  any  observation,  and 
ordered  the  tender  to  anchor  at  the  mouth  of  Pearl 
river. 

On  the  18thyin  the  morning,  the  admiral  sent  for 
the  gentlemen,  who  accordingly  waited  on  him  on 
shore  on  Isle-aux-Pois.  He  first  inquired  what  rank 
they  held  in  the  American  navy:  and  next  observed 
that  their  visit  was  unseasonable  under  the  existing 
circumstances;  that  he  could  not  permit  them  to  re 
turn,  until  the  intended  attack  was  made,  and  the  fate 
of  New  Orleans  decided.  In  support  of  his  opinion, 
he  instanced  a  similar  case  that  had  occurred  at  Bal 
timore,  and  concluded  by  observing,  that  prudence 
and  policy  obliged  him  to  send  them  on  board  some 
vessel  belonging  to  the  fleet.  On  the  gentlemen's 
expressing  a  wish  to  know  in  what  light  he  thought 
proper  to  consider  them,  the  admiral  replied  that  it 
was  his  intention  to  respect  the  flag  of  truce,  though 
he  thought  he  should  not  be  reprehensible,  were  he 
to  treat  them  as  prisoners  of  war. 


/P  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

The  motive  which  induced  these  gentlemen  to  in 
quire  of  the  British  admiral  in  what  light  they  were  to 
be  considered,  was  the  just  suspicion  which  they  en 
tertained  from  the  previous  conduct  of  the  enemy 
towards  them.  Their  boat  had  been  moored  astern 
of  the  tender,  and  plundered  of  all  its  rigging, 
and  a  guard  had  been  stationed  in  her.  It  was 
with  the  greatest  difficulty  that  a  sail  was  ob 
tained  to  shelter  the  men  from  the  rain  and  intense 
cold  during  the  night.  Next  morning,  the  tender 
was  ordered  to  convey  them  on  board  the  Gorgon, 
hospital  ship,  where  were  most  of  the  wounded  men 
of  the  crews  of  the  gun-boats.  Through  the  negli 
gence  of  the  officer  commanding  the  tender,  the  boat 
which  he  had  in  tow,  was  sunk,  and  every  thing  on 
board  of  her  was  lost.  But  what  particularly  evinced 
the  outrageous  spirit  of  the  British,  was  that  the  officer 
commanding  the  tender,  forced  the  crew  of  the  boat 
under  a  flag  of  truce,  to  work  like  his  own  sailors. 
To  put  a  stop  to  this  violation  of  the  law  of  nations, 
it  was  necessary  to  come  to  an  explanation  with  that 
officer,  lieutenant  Johnston;  who,  being  irritated  at  the 
circumstance,  refused  to  give  the  least  assistance  to 
some  of  our  wounded  men,  who  had  been  already 
twenty-eight  hours  on  board  the  tender,  whither  they 
had  been  removed  from  on  board  the  brig  Anaconda, 
without  having  yet  received  any  nourishment  what 
ever.  On  board  the  Gorgon,  the  gentlemen  found 
our  wounded  perfectly  well  treated  by  the  British. 
As  it  is  with  reluctance  that  I  have  been  under  the 
necessity  of  reproaching  them  with  their  cruelty 
in  a  variety  of  instances,  it  is  here  particularly 
grateful  to  me,  to  have  occasion  to  do  justice  to  their 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  77 

humanity;  for  in  describing  the  horrors  of  war,  the 
feeling  heart  finds  a  most  pleasing  relief  from  his 
painful  task,  in  dwelling  upon  instances  of  humane 
conduct. 

Admiral  Coehrane  had  promised  Messrs.  Shield 
and  Morrell  that  they,  should  be  permitted  to  visit 
their  countrymen,  and  yet,  with  duplicity  unworthy 
his  high  rank,  he  gave  a  written  order,  "  that  on  no 
pretence  whatever  were  they  to  be  permitted  to  leave 
the  Gorgon,  until  further  orders." 

The  loss  of  their  boat  having  left  these  officers  en 
tirely  without  linen  or  any  other  clothes  than  those  on 
their  persons,  and  there  appearing  no  rational  ground 
to  detain  them  as  prisoners  who  had  come  under  the 
sanction  of  a  flag  of  truce,  they  several  times,  through 
the  channel  of  different  officers,  applied  to  the  admi- 
ral,  claiming  to  be  set  at  liberty,  with  their  boat's 
crew.  But  all  their  applications  were  to  no  purpose, 
until  the  12th  of  January,  on  which  day  they  were  re 
leased,  and  on  the  18th  they  arrived  in  town. 

The  defence  of  the  country  requiring  the  absence 
of  a  number  of  citizens  from  their  homes,  an  inter 
ruption  of  business  became  unavoidable;  and  the 
obligation  of  performing  military  duty,  precluded 
the  possibility  of  fulfilling  commercial  engagements. 
This  state  of  things  induced  the  legislature  to  pass  a 
law  prolonging  the  term  of  payment  on  ail  contracts, 
till  the  1st  of  May  next  ensuing,  and  providing  va 
rious  regulations  on  that  subject.  (See  Appendix, 
No.  22.) 

On  the  21st  of  December,  when  the  orders  that 
had  been  given  for  obstructing  the  different  canals  of 
the  bayous  below  Manchac  were  presumed  to  have 


78  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

been  executed,  a  detachment  of  the  3d  regiment  of 
militia,  consisting  of  eight  white  men  and  a  serjeant, 
two  mulattoes  and  one  negro,  with  a  single  boat, 
was  sent  by  major  Villere  (the  son)  to  the  village  of 
the  Spanish  fishermen,  on  the  left  bank  of  the  bayou 
Bienvenu,  a  mile  and  a  half  from  its  entrance  into 
lake  Borgne,  for  the  purpose  of  discovering  whether 
the  enemy  might  try  to  penetrate  that  way,  and  to 
give  notice  of  such  attempt. 

The  bayou  Bienvenu  is  unfortunately  become 
so  remarkable  from  the  British  forces  having  pene 
trated  through  it,  into  Louisiana,  that  it  deserves  a 
particular  description. 

This  bayou,  formerly  called  the  river  St.  Francis, 
under  which  designation  it  is  laid  down  in  some  old 
maps,  is  the  creek  through  which  run  all  the  waters  of 
a  large  basin,  of  a  triangular  form,  about  eighty  square 
miles  in  surface,  bounded  on  the  south  by  the  Mis 
sissippi,  on  the  west  by  New  Orleans,  by  bayou 
Sauvage  or  Chef-Menteur  on  the  northwest,  and 
on  the  east  by  lake  Borgne,  into  which  it  empties. 
It  receives  the  waters  of  several  other  bayous,  form 
ed  by  those  of  the  surrounding  cypress  swamps 
and  prairies,  and  of  innumerable  little  streams  from 
the  low  grounds  along  the  river.  It  commences  be 
hind  the  suburb  Marigny,  at  New  Orleans,  divides 
the  triangle  nearly  into  two  equal  parts  from  the  sum 
mit  to  the  lake  which  forms  its  basis,  and  runs  in  a 
south-easterly  direction.  It  is  navigable  for  vessels  of 
one  hundred  tons  as  far  as  the  forks  of  the  canal  of 
Piernas'  plantation,  twelve  miles  from  its  mouth.  Its 
breadth  is  from  one  hundred  and  ten  to  one  hundred 
and  fifty  yards,  and  it  has  six  feet  water  on  the  bar,  at 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  79 

common  tides,  and  nine  feet  at  spring  tides.  With 
in  the  bar,  there  is  for  a  considerable  extent,  suffi 
cient  water  for  vessels  of  from  two  to  three  hundred 
tons.  Its  principal  branch  is  that  which  is  called 
bayou  Mazant,  which  runs  towards  the  southwest, 
and  receives  the  waters  of  the  canals  of  the  planta 
tions  of  Villere,  Lacoste,  and  Laronde,  on  which  the 
enemy  established  his  principal  encampment.  It 
was  at  the  forks  of  the  canal  Villere  and  bayou  Ma 
zant  that  the  British  ascended  in  their  pinnaces,  and 
effected  a  landing. 

Of  the  other  branches  of  the  bayou  Bienvenu 
we  shall  take  no  particular  notice;  that  called  bayou 
Mazant  being  the  only  one  connected  with  the  Bri 
tish  military  movements.  (See  Atlas,  plate  No.  5.) 

The  level  of  the  great  basin,  or  the  bank  of  the 
principal  bayou,  is  usually  twelve  feet  below  the  level 
of  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi.  The  slope  is  usually 
one  half  of  that  height,  or  six  feet,  for  the  descent  of 
the  lands  under  culture,  of  from  about  one  half  to 
two-thirds  of  a  mile  in  depth  from  the  river,  and  the 
remaining  six  feet  is  the  slope  of  cypress  swamps  and 
prairies,  which  are  usually  three  or  four  times  the 
depth,  or  extent  of  the  high- lands  susceptible  of  cul 
tivation;  so  that  one  thousand  yards,  the  usual  depth 
of  the  lands  under  culture,  have  a  slope  of  six  feet, 
which  gives  less  than  0,005  of  a  foot  to  each  yard, 
whilst  the  prairies  and  cypress  swamps  together,  com 
monly  six  thousand  yards  in  depth,  have  but  0,001 
of  a  foot  to  the  yard  in  slope.  The  overflowing  of 
the  waters  of  all  those  bayous  and  canals,  occasioned 
by  the  tide  of  the  sea,  or  by  the  winds  raising  the 


80  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

waters  in  the  lake,  forms  On  all  their  banks  deposits 
of  slime,  which  are  continually  raising  them  above- 
the  rest  of  the  soil,  so  that  the  interval  between  two 
bayous  is,  of  course,  below  the  leve)  of  their  banks, 
and  the  soil  is  generally  covered  with  water  and  mud, 
aquatic  plants,  or  large  reeds,  growing  there  in  abun 
dance  to  the  height  of  from  six  to  eight  feet:  it  some 
times  happens  that  the  rains,  or  the  filtrated  waters, 
collected  hi  these  intervals  or  basins,  not  finding  any 
issue  to  flow  off,  form  what  are  called  trembling  prai- 
ries,  which  are  at  all  seasons  impassable  for  men  and 
domestic  animals. 

In  times  of  great  drought,  and  in  low  tides,  the 
ordinary  prairies  are  passable,  and  some  of  them  are 
frequented  by  the  cattle  of  the  neighbouring  planta 
tions,  which  prefer  the  grass  they  find  there  to  that 
which  grows  on  the  banks  of  the  river,  on  account 
of  the  saline  particles  deposited  among  the  former  by 
the  waters  of  the  lakes  overflowing  into  the  bayous. 
Such  is  nearly  the  structure  of  those  basins  or  prairies, 
which  are  very  extensive  in  Louisiana,  and  what  we 
have  observed  of  those  which  are  immediately  con 
nected  with  our  subject,  is  applicable,  more  or  less, 
to  all  the  others  in  the  country.  From  the  high-lands 
of  the  Floridas,  where  the  first  hills  begin,  all  the  rest, 
as  far  as  the  sea,  is  alluvion  land,  gained  from  the 
water  by  the  deposits  from  streams,  particularly  the 
Mississippi.  This  space  is  crossed  in  different  direc 
tions  by  strips  of  high- land,  between  which  there  is 
invariably  a  river  or  bayou,  more  or  less  subject  to 
periodical  swells  or  tides;  the  surface  of  these  waters 
is  usually  but  little  below  the  soil  contiguous  to  their 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR  81 

banks,  and  always  higher  than  that  which  is  at  a  cer~ 
tain  distance.  In  a  word,  the  land  in  Lower  Louisiana 
slopes  in  the  inverse  direction  of  the  soil  of  other  coun 
tries,  being  most  elevated  on  the  sides  of  the  rivers5 
and  sinking  as  it  recedes  from  them.  The  Missis 
sippi  swells  annually  and  periodically  at  New  Orleans 
fourteen  or  fifteen  feet,  and  is  then  from  three  to 
four  feet  above  the  level  of  its  banks.  To  contain 
its  waters  within  its  bed,  dikes  or  ramparts^  called  in 
Louisiana  levees,  have  been  raised  on  its  banks,  from 
the  high-lands  towards  its  mouth,  a  little  above  the 
level  of  the  highest  swells;  without  which  precaution 
the  lands  would  be  entirely  overflowed  from  four  to 
five  months  in  the  year.  When,  from  accident,  or 
negligence  in  keeping  up  these  dikes,  the  river  breaks 
through  them,  the  rupture,  called  in  this  country  a 
crevasse,  occasions  an  extensive  inundation,  which 
lays  the  adjacent  cypress  swamps  under  ten  and  the 
prairies  under  twelve  feet  water.  Such  accidents, 
unfortunately  too  common,  usually  destroy  at  once 
the  crops  of  ten  and  sometimes  of  twenty  plantations* 
It  is  hoped  that  the  frequent  recurrence  of  the  evil, 
owing  to  a  defective  system  of  police  for  the  le 
vees,  will  determine  the  legislature  to  take  effectual 
measures  to  prevent  such  disasters,  by  ceasing  to 
Confide  to  the  respective  landholders  a  care  so  im 
portant  to  the  whole  country  as  that  of  the  levees, 
and  imposing  a  tax  on  the  lands  where  they  run,  for 
the  purpose  of  keeping  them  always  in  repair. 

This    digression  appeared  to  me   necessary,  to 
give  a  precise  idea  of  the  ground  which  was  the  the- 

M 


2  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

atre  of  the  military  operations  I  am  about  to  relate, 
and  which  could  not  be  perfectly  understood  without 
these  preliminary  observations. 

The  detachment,  composed  as  I  have  observed, 
repaired  in  the  night  of  the  21st  December  to  the 
post  assigned,  the  fishermen's  village,  consisting  oi 
twelve  very  large  cabins,  capable  of  containing  from 
two  hundred  to  three  hundred  men,  and  constructed 
with  stakes,  thatched  and  inclosed  with  palmetto 
leaves,  on  a  tongue  of  land  on  the  left  bank  of  bayou 
Bicnvenu.  In  these  cabins  lived  about  thirty  or  forty 
fishermen,  almost  all  Spaniards  or  Portuguese.  From 
lake  Borgne,  which  being  shallow  and  in  their  vicinity, 
afforded  them  an  advantageous  fishing  ground,  the} 
used  to  convey  their  fish  in  pirogues  (periaguas) 
to  the  extremity  of  the  canal  of  La  Ronde's  and  Vil- 
lere's  plantations,  from  which  place  it  was  transport 
ed  in  wagons  to  town.  The  owners  of  those  plan 
tations  Messrs.  Villere,  Lacoste  and  La  Ronde,  per 
mitted  those  fishermen  to  enjoy  the  gratuitous  use  of 
their  canals,  and  constantly  afforded  relief  to  such  of 
those  wretches  as  happened  ta  fall  sick;  and  it  will 
soon  appear  that  in  return  for  the  beneficence  of  those 
gentlemen,  the  wretches  sold  the  lives  and  fortunes 
of  their  benefactors. 

I  have  not  been  able  to  discover  the  names  of  all 
those  fishermen,  to  consign  them  to  execration  and 
infamy,  as  I  here  do  the  following  few  who  have 
come  to  my  knowledge. 

Master  Fishermen. 

Maringuier  Francisco 

Old  Luiz  Gravielia 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR,  83 

Hireling  Fishermen. 
Antonio  el  Italiano  Manuelillo 

El  Campechano  Antonio  El  Mayorquin 

Antonio  El  Portuguez       Garcia. 

These  are  well  known  to  have  aided  the  British 
in  disembarking  their  troops,  serving  as  pilots  on 
board  their  vessels  and  boats,  and  acting  as  spies  for 
them  from  the  period  of  their  arrival  on  our  coast, 
It  was  their  practice,  when  they  came  to  town  to  sell 
their  fish,  to  get  all  the  information  they  could,  for 
the  purpose  of  carrying  it  to  the  English,  when  they 
went  out  to  fish  in  lake  Borgne.  On  the  20th  of 
December,  the  day  preceding  the  arrival  of  the  de 
tachment  at  the  village,  the  British  captain  Peddie 
had  come  disguised,  accompanied  by  the  three  first 
named  of  these  fishermen,  as  far  as  the  bank  of  the 
Mississippi,  and  had  even  tasted  its  water.  It  was 
from  his  report,  after  having  thus  examined  the  coun 
try,  that  the  enemy  determined  to  penetrate  by  Vil- 
lere's  canal,  whose  banks  at  the  time  afforded  firm 
footing  from  the  landing  place  in  the  prairie  to  the 
river. 

When  the  detachment  arrived  at  the  village,  they 
found  only  one  fisherman,  and  him  sick,  all  the  others, 
having  gone  the  day  before,  under  the  pretence  of 
fishing,  to  serve  as  pilots  to  the  British  barges.  A 
few  men  were  immediately  sent  into  the  lake  to  dis 
cover  whether  the  enemy  were  already  arrived,  and 
on  their  return,  a  sentinel  was  posted  at  some  dis 
tance  in  advance  of  the  last  cabin,  for  the  rest  of  the 
night. 


84  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR, 

On  the  22d  by  break  of  day  a  reconnoitring  party 
of  three  men  was  again  sent  two  miles  into  the  lake, 
and  during  that  whole  day,  fresh  parties  were  sent  out 
every  two  hours,  to  discover  whether  the  enemy  were 
approaching.  Towards  evening,  three  men  in  a  pi 
rogue  arrived  from  Chef-Menteur,  who  had  travers 
ed  part  of  the  lake  without  seeing  any  enemy.  That 
night  a  sentinel  was  again  posted  in  advance  of  the 
Cabins. 


AFFAIR  OF  THE  23d  DECEMBER. 

SOME  time  after  midnight,  the  sentinel  having 
heard  a  noise,  called  his  comrades,  who  all  instantly 
seised  their  arms.  By  the  last  gleams  of  the  setting 
moori,  they  perceived  five  barges  full  of  men,  with 
some  pieces  of  artillery,  ascending  the  bayou;  on 
which,  thinking  it  would  be  imprudent  to  fire,  con 
sidering  the  great  disproportion  of  numbers,  they  re 
tired  for  concealment  behind  a  cabin.  As  soon  as 
the  five  barges  had  passed  this  cabin,  a  party  deter 
mined  to  attempt  to  escape  by  the  lake,  and  give  in 
formation  of  the  arrival  of  the  enemy.  With  this 
view,  seven  men  of  the  detachment  had  already  got 
into  the  boat,  when  one  of  the  barges  having  perceiv 
ed  them,  gave  the  alarm  to  the  four  others,  who  all 
made  for  the  boat  and  became  masters  of  it,  before  it 
could  be  got  ready  to  push  off.  Only  four  of  those  in 
the  boat  had  time  to  land,  and  the  remaining  three 
were  taken,  as  were  two  others  on  shore;  so  that  of  the 
whole  detachment,  only  four  escaped,  who  ran  in  differ 
ent  directions  into  the  prairies;  and  of  these  four,  thrc? 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  85 

individuals,  after  having  wandered  a  whole  day  in  the 
prairies,  where  the  height  of  the  grass  hindered  them 
from  seeing  any  way  to  get  out  of  them,  happened  to 
fall  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy,  at  the  very  village  from 
which  they  had  fled.  One  alone,  Mr.  A.  Key,  more 
persevering,  or  perhaps  more  fortunate,  after  three 
days  of  uncommon  fatigue,  hardships  and  perils, 
over  trembling  prairies,  bayous,  lagoons,  and  through 
cane  brakes,  arrived  at  the  post  of  Bertoniere  on  the 
road  leading  from  Gentilly  to  Chef-Menteur. 

The  enemy  having  made  prisoners  of  all  these 
men,  shut  them  up  in  the  cabin  which  they  used  as 
their  quarters,  and  placed  a  guard  at  the  door.  What 
further  corroborates  the  evidence  of  the  communication 
of  the  fishermen  with  the  British,  is  the  precaution 
that  had  been  taken  by  the  only  one  of  them  that  was 
at  the  village  with  the  detachment  on  the  arrival  of 
the  enemy,  to  shut  up  in  a  cabin,  that  same  evening, 
all  the  dogs  in  the  village,  who  had  kept  up  an  in 
cessant  barking,  during  all  the  preceding  night.  But 
this  is  not  all:  the  British,  through  a  mistake,  shut 
up  one  of  the  fishermen  with  the  detachment,  on  the 
morning  of  the  23d.  This  man  seeing  a  British  offi 
cer  passing  by  the  cabin,  called  to  him,  and  on  dis 
covering  himself  to  him  as  one  of  those  whom  he 
had  frequently  seen  aboard  British  vessels,  he  was 
mimediately  set  at  liberty. 

About  an  hour  afterwards,  Mr.  Ducros,  a  native 
of  Louisiana,  was  taken  from  among  the  prisoners 
;n  the  cabin,  and  put  on  board  a  boat  in  which  was 
captain  Spencer  of  the  navy,  with  a  colonel  of  infan 


86  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

try.  The  boat  proceeded  to  the  lake,  in  which,  when 
they  had  advanced  about  a  mile,  they  met  the  rest  of 
the  first  division,  consisting  of  about  three  thousand 
men  in  eighty  boats.  That  division  was  composed  of 
the  light  brigade  formed  of  the  85th  and  95th  regi- 
ments,  captain  Lane's  rocketeers,  one  hundred  men 
of  the  engineer  corps,  and  the  4th  regiment,  all  un 
der  the  command  of  colonel  Thornton. 

Captain  Spencer  announced  his  prisoner  to  gene- 
ral  Keane  and  admiral  Cochrane,  as  one  of  those  ta 
ken  at  the  viHage.  The  admiral  then  inquired  of  Mr. 
Ducros,  what  might  be  the  number  of  the  American 
forces  in  the  city  and  environs.  The  answer  he  re 
ceived  was,  that  there  were  from  twelve  to  fifteen  thou 
sand  men  in  the  city,  and  from  three  to  four  at  the  En 
glish  Turn.  The  admiral  then  ordered  captain  Spen 
cer  to  proceed  with  all  speed  with  the  advanced  guard, 
and  to  effect  a  landing  at  the  point  agreed  on.  The  di 
vision  proceeded  accordingly,  and  when  it  arrived  at 
the  village,  admiral  Cochrane  with  several  other  offi 
cers,  went  on  shore,  and  the  division,  under  the  com 
mand  of  general  Keane,  proceeded  up  the  bayou. 
The  admiral  and  the  other  officers  put  again  to  all  the 
prisoners,  the  questions  they  had  asked  Mr.  Ducros, 
and  received  from  all  nearly  the  same  answer  in  con 
sequence  of  a  conversation  the  evening  before,  in 
which  they  had  made  the  number  of  troops  already 
arrived,  or  hourly  expected  at  New  Orleans,  to 
amount  to  eighteen  thousand  men. 

The  division  arrived  at  the  extremity  of  Villere's 
canal  by  four  in  the  morning,  and  soon  effected  a 
landing,  being  almost  wholly  composed  of  light 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  6i 

troops.  After  the  troops  had  rested  some  hours,  the 
British  colours  were  displayed  at  the  top  of  a  tree, 
while  the  band  played  God  save  the  King;  and  at 
about  ten  o'clock  thty  commenced  their  march  to 
wards  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi,  cutting  cane,  as 
they  went  along,  to  facilitate  their  passage  over  the 
prairie  and  small  bayous  or  coulees.  From  the 
mouth  of  the  canal  to  the  skirts  of  the  wood,  the  dis 
tance  is  about  a  mile,  and  from  thence  to  the  bank  of 
the  river  nearly  two  miles.  At  about  half  after  ele 
ven,  the  advance  arrived  at  the  side  of  the  wood  next 
the  river,  and  immediately  extended  along  Villere's 
canal.  They  now  surrounded  the  house  of  general 
Villere,  in  which  was  stationed  a  company  of  the 
third  regiment  of  militia,  whom  they  made  prisoners, 
and  where  they  surprised  major  Villere5  his  son,  who, 
notwithstanding  several  pistols  fired  at  him,  made 
his  escape  through  a  window,  and  got  to  the  river, 
where  finding  a  pirogue,  he  crossed  over  to  the  right 
bank.  Colonel  Denis  de  la  Ronde,  who  on  that  very 
night,  the  23d>  as  indeed  throughout  the  whole  cam 
paign,  rendered  essential  services  to  his  country, 
had  also  escaped  from  the  enemy,  and  arrived  in  town 
by  the  opposite  bank. 

The  rest  of  the  troops  of  the  division  continued 
to  arrive  at  general  Villere's  house,  and  were  on  their 
march  towards  the  higher  boundary  of  the  plantation, 
with  intent  to  encamp  there,  when  they  were  first 
discovered.  Colonel  Denis  de  la  Ronde,  who  had 
stationed  detachments  of  his  regiment,  the  third  of 
Louisiana  militia,  on  general  Villere's  and  Jumon- 
ville's  plantations,  had,  in  the  evening  of  the  22d,  sent 


.    88  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

to  inform  general  Jackson  that  several  sails  of  vessels 
had  been  seen  off  the  point  of  the  three  bayous,  be- 
hind  Terre  aux  Bceufs.  The  general  ordered  me  to 
go,  in  company  with  major  Tatum,  topographical 
engineer,  to  ascertain  whether  this  report  were  true; 
directing  us  to  examine  very  particularly  all  the  com 
munications  from  Terre  aux  Boeufs  to  lake  Borgne. 
We  left  town  at  eleven  o'clock  in  the  forenoon  of  the 
23d,  and  when  we  arrived  at  the  boundary  of  Bien- 
venu's  and  la  Ronde's  plantations,  we  met  several 
persons  flying  towards  town,  who  told  us  that  the  Bri 
tish  had  got  to  general  Villere's  house  by  the  canal, 
and  had  taken  prisoner  major  Villere,  the  general's 
son.  It  being  of  the  utmost  importance  to  inform 
general  Jackson  of  an  event  no  longer  doubtful,  ma 
jor  Tatum  immediately  returned  to  town,  and  I  pro 
ceeded  forward  as  far  as  over  the  boundary  of  La- 
coste's  and  Villere's  plantations,  whence  1  discover 
ed  British  troops  occupying  the  ground  from  the. 
commencement  of  the  angle  made  by  the  road  in  thai 
place  to  the  head  of  the  canal.  (See  the  plan  of  the 
affair  of  the  23d,  Plate  6,  in  which  that  position  is  laid 
down.)  I  approached  within  rifle-shot  of  those  troops, 
ar^  judged  that  their  number  must  amount  to  six 
teen  or  eighteen  hundred  men.  It  was  then  half  past 
one  P.  M.,  and  within  twenty- five  minutes  after,  ge 
neral  Jackson  was  informed  of  the  enemy's  position,, 
On  this  the  general,  with  that  heroism  and  prompt 
decision  which  is  characteristic  of  him,  and  of  which 
he  had  exhibited  such  signal  instances  during  the 
campaign,  instantly  said  he  would  go  to  meet  the  Bri 
tish;  and  immediately  issued  orders  to  that  effect 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  89 

The  alarm-gun  was  fired;  the  batta!  on  of  uniform 
Volunteer  companies,  commanded  by  major  Platiche, 
then  stationed  at  the  bayou  St.  John,  was  ordered  to 
return  and  join  the  other  corps  with  all  possible 
speed,  which  order  the  battalion  executed,  running 
all  the  way. 

By  half  after  two  in  the  afternoon,  a  detach 
ment  of  artillery,  two  field  pieces,  commanded  by 
lieutenant  Spotts,  and  lieutenant-colonel  iVrRae,  ihe 
seventh  of  the  line,  the  command  of  which  regi 
ment  was  given,  for  the  present,  to  major  Peire,  on 
account  of  an  accidental  wound  disabling  major 
Nicks  from  active  service,  and  a  detachment  of  ma 
rines,  commanded  by  lieutenant  Bellevue,  were  all 
formed  on  the  road,  near  Montreuil's  plantation.  Or 
ders  had  likewise  been  sent  to  generals  Coffee  and 
Carroll,  who  were  encamped  four  miles  above  the 
city,  to  march  down  with  their  commands,  and  these 
orders  were  executed  in  one  hour's  time. 

General  Coffee's  command  of  mounted  riflemen, 
and  the  volunteer  dragoons  of  the  Mississippi  terri 
tory,  formed  the  advance;  the  Orleans  rifle  company, 
commanded  by  captain  Beale,  followed  on  closely, 
and  by  four  o'clock  had  taken  a  position  on  Rodri 
guez's  canal;  the  battalion  of  men  of  colour,  under 
major  Daquin,  the  forty-fourth  regiment,  under  cap 
tain  Baker,  and  Plauche's  battalion,  which  arrived 
about  five  o'clock  from  the  bayou,  marched  with  all 
expedition  against  the  enemy.  Commodore  Patter-, 
son  was  requested  to  order  such  armed  vessels  as 
were  ready,  to  drop  down  and  take  a  station  opposite 
the  enemy.  The  schooner  Carolina,  captain  Henley, 


90  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

was  the  only  one  in  a  condition  to  perform  this  ser 
vice,  as,  there  being  no  wind,  the  sloop  of  war  Lou 
isiana  could  not  steer  in  the  stream.  Commodore 
Patterson  went  on  board  the  Carolina,  and  there  con 
tinued  during  the  engagement.  (See  the  commo 
dore's  letters  to  the  secretary  of  the  navy,  Appendix  5 
No.  23  ) 

Governor  Claiborne  was  ordered,  with  the  first, 
second,  and  fourth  regiments  of  the  Louisiana  militia, 
and  the  volunteer  company  of  horse,  under  captain 
Chauveau,  to  take  a  position  between  the  Colson  and 
Darcantel  plantations,  in  the  plain  of  Gentilly,  in  or 
der  to  cover  the  city  on  the  side  of  Chef-Menteur. 
About  four  o'clock,  a  piquet  of  five  mounted  rifle 
men,  who  had  been  sent  to  reconnoitre  the  road,  was 
assailed  by  a  discharge  of  musketry  from  a  British 
out-post  concealed  behind  the  fence  on  the  boundary 
of  Laronde's  and  Lacoste's  plantations,  by  which  the 
reconnoitring  party,  too  weak  and  too  rash,  lost  a 
horse  killed,  and  had  two  men  wounded.  Colonel 
Haines,  inspector- general  of  the  division,  went  for 
ward,  shortly  after,  with  one  hundred  men,  to  recon 
noitre  the  enemy;  but  he  had  no  opportunity  to  form 
a  correct  estimate  of  their  number,  which  he  made 
to  amount  to  no  more  than  two  hundred  men;  an  er 
ror  probably  proceeding  from  his  having  taken  the 
advance  on  the  road  for  the  troops  drawn  up  in  co 
lumn  some  hours  before,  as  reported  by  the  officer 
who  had  first  seen  them. 

A  negro  was  apprehended,  who  had  been  sent  by 
the  British  with  printed  copies  of  a  proclamation,  in 
French  and  Spanish,  nearly  in  the  following  terms: 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  91 

"  Louisianians!  remain  quiet  in  your  houses;  your 
slaves  shall  be  preserved  to  you,  and  your  property 
respected.  We  make  war  only  against  Americans." 
Signed  by  admiral  Cochrane  and  major-general 
Keane. 

We  have  seen,  in  the  account  of  the  offers  made 
to  Mr.  Lafitte,  what  reliance  was  to  be  had  on  their 
promise  to  preserve  slaves  to  their  masters. 

An  hour  before  these  papers  were  seized,  the 
British  had  stuck  up  the  same  proclamation  on  the 
fences,  all  along  the  road  below  Laronde's  plantation. 

The  troops  now  moved  forward;  general  Coffee 
took  the  command  of  the  left,  composed  of  a  part  of 
his  brigade,  the  Tennessee  mounted  riflemen,  the 
Orleans  company  of  riflemen,  under  captain  Beale, 
forming  the  extremity  of  the  left,  a  part  of  the  Mis 
sissippi  dragoons  and  mounted  riflemen,  amounting 
in  all  to  seven  hundred  and  thirty- two  fighting  men. 

Colonel  de  la  Ronde,  the  owner  of  the  plantation 
on  which  the  troops  were  formed,  after  having,  about 
noon,  escaped  from  the  British  at  Villere's,  and 
crossed  the  river,  had  come  to  town  and  joined 
captain  Beale's  company  as  a  volunteer;  from  his 
knowledge  of  the  ground,  he  was  now  ordered  by 
general  Jackson  to  accompany  general  Coffee  as  a 
guide. 

About  nightfall,  the  left  entered  on  La  Ronde's 
plantation,  and  took  a  position  in  the  back  of  it,  on 
its  boundary  with  Lacoste's. 

The  right  formed  on  a  line  almost  perpendicular 
to  the  river,  stretching  from  the  levee  to  the  garden 
of  La  Ronde's  plantation,  and  on  its  principal  ave- 


2  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

nue.  The  artillery  occupied  the  high  road,  support 
ed  by  the  detachment  of  marines.  On  the  left  of  the 
artillery  were  stationed  the  seventh  and  forty-fourth 
of  the  line,  Plauche's  and  Daqiun's  battalions,  and 
eighteen  Chactaw  Indians,  commanded  by  captains 
Jugeant  and  Allard,  forming  the  extremity  of  the 
right  wing  towards  the  woods.  The  superior  com 
mand  of  the  battalions  of  militia  was  given  to  colonel 
Ross. 

The  boats  that  had  landed  the  first  division  of 
the  British  troops  returned  down  the  bayou,  and  at 
eight  o'clock  passed  the  village  on  their  way  to  take 
in  the  second  division,  which  had  been  embarked  in 
small  vessels,  and  was  already  in  the  lake.  By  four 
in  the  afternoon,  that  division,  consisting  of  the  twen 
ty-first,  forty-fourth,  and  ninety-third  regiments,  with 
a  division  of  artillery,  in  all  two  thousand  five  hun 
dred  men,  arrived  at  the  village.  At  half  after  seven 
in  the  evening,  they  were  disembarking,  when  the 
firing  \vas  first  heard  from  the  schooner  Carolina, 
which  now  opened  on  the  division  encamped  on  the 
river  bank. 

Admirals  Cochrane  and  Malcolm,  with  several 
officers  of  the  army  and  navy,  had  remained  at  the 
village  to  hasten  the  landing  of  the  troops,  and  had 
there  passed  the  whole  day,  during  which  time  they 
frequently  conversed  with  the  prisoners,  endeavour 
ing  to  persuade  them  that  the  British  army  came  with 
no  hostile  intent  against  the  inhabitants  of  the  country, 
who  being  mostly  Frenchmen  or  Spaniards  by  birth 
or  descent,  must  naturally  (as  these  English  gentle- 
men  naturaUy  supposed)  prefer  the  British  govern 
ment  to  that  of  the  United  States.  They  told  them 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  93 

that  their  intentions  were  to  obtain  and  keep  posses 
sion  of  the  country,  and  to  penetrate  far  up  the  Mis- 
sissippi,  to  make  the  upper  country  the  theatre  of 
war;  that  to  convince  the  inhabitants  of  their  friendly 
intentions,  they  had  brought  with  them  three  natives 
of  Louisiana,  serving  in  the  troops  of  his  catholic  ma 
jesty  in  Pensacola;  and  accordingly  those  three  per 
sons  alluded  to,  Messrs.  Guillemard,  <Regio,  and 
Grand  Pre,  were  seen  shortly  after  in  company  with 
the  British  officers;  but  fortunately  were  not  able  to 
give  them  any  great  assistance. 

On  the  arrival  of  the  second  division  at  the  vil 
lage,  the  prisoners  were  embarked  on  board  one  of 
the  boats,  to  be  conveyed  to  their  own  homes.  They 
landed  at  half  past  seven,  with  the  second  division, 
who,  on  hearing  the  report  of  the  cannon,  made  all 
haste  to  repair  to  the  scene  of  action,  where  they  ar 
rived  in  less  than  an  hour,  long  before  the  action  was 
over,  so  that  several  corps  of  that  division  were  en 
gaged  in  it. 

The  first  division  of  British  troops,  having  en 
camped,  or  rather  bivouacked,  as  I  have  already  ob 
served,  at  the  angle  formed  by  the  road,  on  the  high 
est  part  of  Villere's  plantation,  in  irregular  order, 
some  on  the  side  of  the  levee,  and  others  in  the  plain, 
out-posts  had  been  stationed  at  different  places,  in 
an  oblique  line,  extending  from  the  boundary  be 
tween  La  Ronde's  and  Lacoste's  plantations,  running 
along  the  negro  huts  of  the  latter,  on  the  back  of 
the  dwelling  house,  as  far  as  a  cluster  of  live  oaks, 
on  Villere's  canal,  near  the  wood.  There  was  sta 
tioned  a  strong  detachment  to  cover  the  communica- 


94  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

tion  with  the  rest  of  the  army,  by  the  road  on  the 
right  bank  of  the  canal.     Through  the  plain  ran  a 
chain  of  out- sentries,  very  closely  posted.     A  de 
tachment  of  fifty  men  was  stationed  at  J union ville's 
bridge,  on  the  border  of  the  canal,   on  the  road, 
One  company  had  advanced  as  far  as  the  bank  of  the 
river,  behind  the  levee,  and  to  the  angle  forming  Mr. 
Villere's  inclosed  batture,  probably  in  order  to  pre 
vent  all  surprise  by  the  river.     The  detachment  of 
the  rocket  brigade  was  stationed  behind  the  levee,  to 
use  that  diabolical  invention  against  such  vessels  as 
might  endeavour  to  annoy  the  camp.     A  few  pieces 
of  cannon  had  already  arrived,  and  were  mounted  in 
the  court  near  Villere's  sugar- works.    A  strong  de 
tachment  of  about  five  hundred  men  was  stationed 
on  the  left  bank  of  Villere's  canal,  near  the  negro 
huts.    General  Keane  and  his  officers,  among  whom 
was  colonel  Thornton,  had  established  their  head 
quarters  in  Mr.  Villere's  house. 

The  British  general  having  thus,  with  little  diffi 
culty,  succeeded  in  bringing  his  troops  to  the  banks 
of  the  Mississippi,  and  there  establishing  his  camp, 
in  the  belief  that  his  arrival  and  position  could  not 
be  known  at  New  Orleans  till  late  in  the  night,  ex 
pected  to  meet  with  little  or  no  resistance.  Such  was 
the  security  and  confidence  of  the  British  army,  that 
part  of  the  troops  had  lain  down  in  their  bivouacs, 
and  some  picquets  of  the  out-posts  had  lighted  up 
large  fires,  at  which  the  men  were  cooking  their 
suppers,  when  they  were  surprised.  It  appears,  indeed, 
not  unlikely  that  the  opinion  they  had  of  their  supe 
rior  military  skill,  the  expectation  with  which  they 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  95 

had  been  deluded,  that  the  old  population  of  the  coun 
try  would  hail  their  arrival  with  joy,  the  cheering 
thoughts  of  their  having  arrived  on  the  banks  of  the 
Mississippi,  within  nine  miles  of  New  Orleans,  with 
out  having  had  occasion  to  fire  a  musket,  contributed 
to  make  the  British  believe  themselves  in  perfect  secu 
rity  from  any  attack.  (See  the  plan,  Plate  No.  6.) 
About  seven  o'clock  the  Carolina  came  to  anchor 
on  the  brink  of  Villere's  batture,  opposite  the  centre 
of  theBritish  encampment,  within  musket-shot.  Such 
was  the  security  of  the  British,  that  taking  that  ves 
sel  for  a  common  boat  plying  on  the  Mississippi, 
numbers  of  them  went  on  the  levee  to  examine  her 
more  closely.  At  half  after  seven  the  Carolina  open 
ed  on  them  a  dreadful  fire,  which  continued  for  ten 
minutes  before  they  could  recover  from  the  conster 
nation  with  which  they  were  struck  by  that  sudden 
attack;  so  that  they  had  not  yet  run  to  their  arms, 
when  the  guns  of  the  schooner  had  already  killed  or 
wounded  upwards  of  a  hundred  of  their  men.  The 
British  at  last  extinguished  the  fires  in  their  camp, 
and  attempted  to  answer  the  schooner  with  a  fire  of 
musketry,  from  which  the  crew  sustained  no  injury. 
Some  Congreve  rockets  were  tried  with  as  little  ef 
fect,  and  those  who  discharged  them  were  forced  to 
conceal  themselves  behind  the  levee.  In  less  than 
half  an  hour  the  schooner  drove  the  enemy  from  his 
camp.  (See  commodore  Patterson's  letter  to  the  se 
cretary  of  the  navy,  Appendix  No.  ^4.) 

At  this  moment  a  company  of  the  seventh,  com 
manded  by  lieutenant  M'Kleiiand,  under  colonel 
Fia:^  quartermaster-general,  advanced  from  the  gate 


96  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

of  La  Ronde's  plantation,  on  the  road,  to  the  boun 
dary  of  Lacoste's,  at  the  distance  of  fifteen  paces, 
where  the  detachment  was  received  with  a  discharge 
of  musketry,  from  one  of  the  enemy's  out  posts  sta 
tioned  on  the  road.  Though  this  out-post  consisted 
of  a  considerable  number  of  men,  that  gallant  compa 
ny  attacked  them  vigorously,  and  forced  them  to  re 
tire;  and  colonel  Piatt,  with  a  few  men  of  the  detach- 
ment,  advanced  to  the  ground  from  which  they  had 
just  driven  the  enemy.  The  latter j  having  received 
a  reinforcement  of  two  hundred  men,  and  being  now 
about  three  hundred  strong,  returned  to  resume  their 
former  position,  and  kept  up  a  brisk  fire  of  muske 
try  against  the  detachment,  who  as  briskly  returned 
it.  In  this  affair  colonel  Piatt  received  a  wound  in 
the  leg,  lieutenant  M'Klelland  and  a  serjeant  were 
killed,  and  a  few  men  wounded. 

Meantime  the  7th  regiment  advanced  by  heads 
of  companies  parallel  to  the  right,  appuye  on  the 
high  road,  to  the  distance  of  150  yards,  where  it 
formed  in  battalion  before  the  enemy,  with  whom  it 
instantly  engaged  with  a  very  brisk  and  close  fire. 
The  44th  came  up  at  the  same  time,  formed  on  the 
left  of  the  7th,  and  commenced  firing.  The  artillery 
having  now  arrived,  the  two  pieces  were  put  in  bat 
tery  on  the  road,  the  marines  being  drawn  up  on  the 
right  of  the  artillery  on  the  river  bank.  The  engage 
ment  now  became  general  on  both  sides;  the  front  of 
the  British  line  greatly  outflanked  our  line  on  the  left, 
and  the  enemy  seeing  that  he  could  not  make  our 
troops  give  way,  caused  some  of  his  to  file  off  on  the 
old  levee  by  a  gate,  three  hundred  yards  from  the  river, 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  97 

with  intent  to  turn  our  flank.  The  44th  had  already 
been  obliged  to  oblique  cm  the  left,  to  avoid  being 
turned,  when  major  Plauche's  battalion,  with  that  of 
major  Daquin,  with  a  very  small  number  of  Indians, 
advanced  at  the  moment  when  their  left  was  appuye 
on  the  angle  of  Laronde's  garden,  and  the  right  a  little 
in  the  rear  of  the  44th.  The  enemy's  column  advan 
cing  silently  in  the  dark,  to  endeavour  to  turn  the 
troops  of  the  line,  fell  suddenly  almost  within  pistol- 
shot  of  the  extremity  of  Daquin's  battalion,  and  in 
stantly  commenced  a  brisk  firing.  Plauche's  batta 
lion,  now  forming  the  centre,  advanced  in  close  co 
lumn,  and  displayed  under  the  enemy's  fire,  which 
was  then  kept  up  by  his  whole  front,  from  the  bank 
of  the  river  to  Laronde's  garden,  forming  an  angle, 
or  curve,  in  the  centre.  Already  had  our  troops,  ani 
mated  with  martial  ardour,  forced  the  enemy  to  give 
way;  and  they  continued  to  advance,  keeping  up  an 
incessant  fire;  the  cry  of  charge!  charge!  push  o?v 
with  the  bayonet!  ran  from  rank  to  tank  on  the  left> 
when  the  enemy  thought  proper  to  retire,  favoured 
by  the  darkness  which  was  increased  by  the  fog,  and 
by  the  smoke  which  a  light  breeze  from  the  south 
blew  full  in  the  faces  of  our  men.  The  artillery  had 
all  this  time  been  playing  upon  the  enemy,  who  made 
an  attempt  to  seize  it;  but  the  fire  from  the  right  of 
the  7th  regiment,  and  from  the  marines,  frustrated 
his  intent.  At  last  when  the  smoke  dispersed,  the 
enemy  had  already  retired  within  the  limits  of  La- 
coste's  plantation. 

In  the  meantime,  general  Coffee's  division  had 
advanced  towards  the  back  of  Laronde's  plantation. 


HISTORICAL   MEMO111. 

in  order  to  fall  on  the  enemy's  rear,  according  to  the 
advice  of  colonel  Laronde,  the  owner  of  the  pre 
mises.     General  Coffee  ordered  his  riflemen  to  dis 
mount  on  the  edge  of  the  ditch  separating  the  two 
plantations,  where  he  left  about  one  hundred  men  to 
take  care  of  the  horses,  and  have  them  ready  when 
wanted.     The  division  crossed  the  boundary  line, 
and  pushed  forward  in  a  direction  perpendicular  to 
that  line.  Captain  Beak's  company,  which  had  advan 
ced  near  the  wood,  within  a  short  distance  of  one  of 
the  enemy's  advanced  guards, followed  the  movements 
of  general  Coffee,  who  drew  up  his  division  almost 
on  the  limits  between  the  grounds  of  Lacoste  and 
Villcre.    The  detachment  of  cavalry  under  the  com- 
mand  of  major  Hinds,  not  being  able  to  manoeuvre 
in  fields  cut  up  with  ditches  at  very  close  intervals, 
remained  drawn  up  on  the  edge  of  a  ditch  in  the  mid 
dle  of  the  plantation.     Colonel  Coffee's  division  ex 
tended  its  front  as  much  as  possible,  and  the  general 
ordered  it  to  advance  in  silence,  and  fire  without  or 
der,  taking  aim  with  their  utmost  skill.     Long  prac 
tice  had  enabled  these  riflemen  to  keep  up  a  very 
brisk  fire,  the  more  destructive,  as  not  a  man  dis 
charged  his  piece  without  doing  execution.    The  di 
vision  continued  to  advance,  driving  the  enemy  be 
fore  it,  and  took  its  second  position  in  front  of  La- 
coste's  plantation,  where  was  posted  the  85th,  which, 
on  receiving  the  first  discharge,  fell  back  behind  the 
old  levee,  towards  the  camp.     Captain  Beale's  com 
pany  advanced  on  the  left  within  Villere's  plantation, 
almost  in  the  midst  of  detachments  of  the  enemv,  in- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR,  9 

cessantly  coming  up  on  that  side.  It  was  principally 
engaged  with  a  corps  of  the  enemy  near  the  old 
levee,  which  it  forced  to  fall  back.  About  the  same 
time  Coffee's  division  discovered  that  several  parties 
of  the  enemy  were  posted  among  Lacoste's  negro 
huts.  On  this  the  general  ordered  his  men  to  move 
forward  to  the  right,  to  drive  the  enemy  from  that 
position,  which  was  soon  effected. 

The  negro  huts  of  Mr.  Lacoste's  plantation  still 
exhibit  evident  proofs  of  the  unerring  aim  of  the  gal 
lant  Tennesseans  of  Coffee's  division:  in  one  spot  par 
ticularly  are  seen  half  a  dozen  marks  of  their  balls  in 
a  diameter  of  four  inches,  which  were  probably  all 
fired  at  the  same  object. 

Some  British  soldiers  were  killed  or  taken  prison 
ers  in  endeavouring  to  escape  towards  the  woods 
near  the  huts,  in  a  direction  opposite  to  that  of  their 
camp;  so  true  it  is  that  the  British  troops  were  struck 
with  consternation  on  being  attacked  that  night  in  so 
vigorous,  judicious  and  unexpected  a  manner. 

Captain  Beale's  company,  after  having  penetrated 
into  the  very  camp  of  the  enemy,  and  made  several 
prisoners,  pushed  forward  to  the  right,  following  the 
movement  of  general  Coffee;  but  unfortunately  a  par 
ty  of  those  brave  and  most  estimable  men,  through 
a  mistake  owing  to  the  darkness,  fell  among  a  corps 
of  one  hundred  and  fifty  of  the  British,  who  were 
moving  on  rapidly  towards  the  camp,  taking  them  for 
part  of  Coffee's  division,  and  were  made  prisoners. 
The  others  followed  the  road  to  the  right,  and  took 
several  prisoners. 


100  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

Coffee's  division  at  last  took  a  position  in  front  of 
the  old  levee,  near  Laronde's  boundary,  where  it 
continued  to  keep  up  a  destructive  fire  on  the  troops 
that  had  been  repulsed  tc>^  ards  the  right,  as  they 
were  endeavouring  to  escape. 

It  was  now  about  half  after  nine,  when  the  enemy 
having  learned  by  experience  that  he  could  not  hope 
to  obtain  any  advantage  over  our  troops,  and  per 
suaded  that  he  would  greatly  endanger  his  own  safe 
ty  by  continuing  the  combat  in  which  he  had  already 
suffered  so  much,  fell  back  to  his  camp,  where  all 
the  troops  passed  the  night  under  arms  and  without 
lire. 

During  the  engagement  the  second  division  ar 
rived,  and  a  considerable  part  of  it  was  in  the  thickest 
of  the  fire.  The  fear  of  being  cut  oft'  from  the  sole 
communication  he  had  with  the  fleet,  made  the  ene 
my  take  every  precaution  to  prevent  such  a  disaster. 
His  posts  were  in  continual  alarm  the  whole  night, 
and  such  were  his  apprehensions  that  he  posted  dou 
ble  lines  of  sentinels,  so  that  as  the  one  turned  it  was 
crossed  by  the  other  walking  in  a  contrary  direction. 

General  Jackson  seeing  that  the  darkness  render 
ed  it  impossible  for  him  to  follow  up  victory  any 
farther,  was  forced  to  content  himself  for  the  present 
with  having  convinced  the  British  that  Americans 
were  not  to  be  intimidated  by  the  martial  renown  of 
the  heroes  of  Wellington.  He  therefore  led  back 
his  troops  to  their  former  position,  from  the  principal 
entrance  to  the  buildings  of  Laronde's  plantation, 
where  they  remained  until  four  in  the  morning.  Ge 
neral  Coffee  took  his  position  for  the  night  in  front 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  10J 

of  Laronde's  garden,  on  the  left  of  the  other  troops. 
About  half  after  eleven  a  firing  of  musketry  was  heard 
in  the  .rection  of  Jumonville's  plantation. 

The  detachment  of  the  Louisiana  drafted  militia,  in 
cantonments  at  the  L  nglish  Turn,  under  the  command 
of  brigadier- general  David  Morgan,  three  hundred  and 
fifty  men  strong,  having  learned,  at  about  one  o'clock 
in  the  afternoon,  that  the  enemy  was  on  Villere's 
plantation,  ran  to  their  arms,  and  all  the  officers  and 
privates  desired  to  be  led  against  him.  General 
Morgan,  not  having  received  orders  to  that  effect, 
did  not  think  proper  to  yield  to  the  earnest  solicita 
tions  of  the  troops,  whose  impatience  of  inactivity 
increased  every  moment.  At  half  after  seven,  when 
the  report  of  the  Carolina's  guns  struck  their  ears,  it 
became  almost  impossible  to  hinder  the  men  from 
marching  against  the  enemy;  and  at  last  general  Mor 
gan,  at  the  pressing  request  of  the  officers,  gave  or 
ders  to  march,  which  diffused  joy  through  the  whole 
detachment. 

Having  instantly  set  out,  it  arrived  at  the  entrance 
of  the  road  to  Terre-aux-Boeufs,  during  the  hottest 
of  the  action,  and  continued  to  advance,  preceded  by 
two  piquets,  the  one  on  the  high  road,  the  other  in 
the  fields  near  the  woods.  The  picquet  that  follow 
ed  the  high  road,  being  arrived  within  a  short  distance 
of  the  bridge  over  Jumonville's  plantation,  perceiving 
some  of  the  enemy's  troops,  but  not  being  able  to  as 
certain  their  number,  hailed  them;  but  receiving  no 
answer,  the  picquet  fired  on  the  enemy,  who  return 
ed  their  fire,  and  instantlv  fell  back  behind  the  canal 


102  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

Some  men  were  sent  on  reconnoitring,  to  en 
deavour  to  discover  their  strength,  but  without  ef 
fect.  Suspecting  an  ambush,  the  battalion  took  a 
position  in  a  neighbouring  field,  where  it  remained 
until  about  three  next  morning,  when  it  was  thought 
advisable  to  return  to  the  camp. 

General  Morgan,  not  thinking  it  expedient  to  quit 
his  position  before  day-break,  held  a  council  of  all  his 
officers,  in  which  it  was  resolved  that,  as  they  were 
ignorant  of  the  position  of  the  American  army,  it  was 
advisable  to  march  back  to  their  station  at  the  Turn, 
as  soon  as  day  appeared,  which  was  executed  accord 
ingly. 

The  battalion  arrived  in  its  cantonments  early  in 
the  morning,  after  much  fatigue,  having,  from  eight 
in  the  evening,  marched  fifteen  miles  in  very  muddy 
roads.  Several  soldiers  belonging  to  the  battalion,  who 
had  just  left  the  hospital  to  march  against  the  enemy, 
were  obliged  to  remain  behind,  being  exhausted 
with  fatigue.  These  on  their  return,  reported  that  in 
the  same  field  in  which  the  battalion  had  formed  in 
the  night,  there  was  within  a  short  distance  a  British 
corps  of  six  hundred  men,  who,  probably  thinking 
the  battalion  stronger  than  it  was,  had  not  dared  to 
attack  it. 

From  the  most  accurate  information  that  could 
be  obtained,  the  enemy  lost  in  this  affair  four  hun 
dred  men.  Their  official  report  acknowledges  three 
hundred  and  five  killed,  wounded  or  prisoners:  the 
number  of  the  latter  was  eighty-five,  including  officers. 

The  loss  on  our  side  was  twenty-four  killed,  one 
hundred  and  fifteen  wounded,  officers  included,  and 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  103 

seventy-four  prisoners,  in  all  two  hundred  and  thir 
teen  men. 

The  loss  of  colonel  Lauderdale,  of  general  Cof 
fee's  brigade  of  mounted  riflemen,  was, particularly 
regretted;  he  was  a  brave  and  accomplished  officer; 
his  death  is  lamented  by  all  who  knew  him;  and  their 
only  consolation  is  that  he  died  at  the  post  of  honour, 
fighting  in  defence  of  his  country. 

Though  the  precise  amount  of  the  enemy's  forces 
in  this  action  cannot  be  exactly  ascertained,  it  is  well 
known  that  half  of  general  Keane's  division  was  en 
camped  on  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi,  at  the  begin 
ning  of  the  attack;  and  that  the  remaining  half  of  the 
division,  which  had  embarked  at  the  encampment  on 
Isle-aux-Pois,  in  light  vessels,  several  of  which  had 
run  aground  in  the  lake,  had  got  on  board  of  the  barges 
that  returned,  after  having  landed  the  first  half,  and 
were  disembarking  when  the  cannon  began  to  fire;  that 
the  greater  part  of  these  troops  set  out  immediately 
from  the  landing  place,  two  miles  and  a  half  from  the 
Mississippi,  and  ran  towards  the  field  of  battle,  where 
their  first  platoons  had  already  arrived,  before  Coffee's 
division  began  to.  fire,  and  where  they  all  successively 
arrived  long  before  the  action  was  over,  as  it  lasted  till 
ten  o'clock  at  night. 

That  division,  composed  of  the,  regiments  we 
have  already  mentioned,  could  not  amount  to  less 
than  four  thousand  five  hundred  men,  as  we  know 
the  strength  of  each  regiment. 

The  first  disembarkation  consisted  of  the  light 
brigade  commanded  by  colonel  Thornton,  composed 


104 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR* 


of  part  of  the  85th  regiment,  of  650  men 

95th    do.     (rifle  corps)  500 

A  detachment  of  sappers  and  miners  100 
A  detachment  of  the  rocket  brigade. 

commanded  by  captain  Lane  80 

4th  regiment  750 

Total         2030  meiv 
The  2d  disembarkation  consisted  of 
the  21st  regiment  (royal  North 
Britain)  Fusileers  900 

44th         do  750 

93rd         do  1100 

A  number  of  artillerists  amounting, 

according  to  the  best  information,  to          150 

In  all         4980  men. 

On  the  supposition  that  each  regiment  left  a  party 
on  board  the  vessels,  to  take  care  of  the  baggage,  as 
is  sometimes  the  case,  there  would  still  remain  four 
thousand  five  hundred  effective  men  landed  on  the 
23d  before  nine  o'clock  in  the  evening;  and  indeed 
several  accounts  from  Jamaica,  Providence  and  Ber 
muda,  make  the  number  amount  to  five  thousand. 

Let  us  now  see  with  what  number,  and  what  kind 
of  troops,  the  commander-in-chief,  general  Jackson, 
attacked  this  enemy,  so  powerful,  so  enured  to  \var- 
fare,  preceded  by  a  great  reputation,  and  enjoying 
every  possible  advantage. 

The  right,  commanded  by  general  Jackson  in 
person,  was  composed  of  a  detachment  of  marines, 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIEo  105 

under  the  command  oflieut.  Bellevue   66  men  strong 

A  detachment  of  artillery  with  two 
six  pounders,  under  the  immedi 
ate  command  of  colonel  M'Rea 
and  lieutenant  Spot  22 

7th  regiment,  major  Peire  465 

44th,  commanded  by  captain  Baker,  331 

884 

Major  Planches  battalion. 
Carabiniers,  captain  Roche  86 

Dismounted  dragoons,  major 

St.  Geme  78 

Louisiana  blues,  captain  White  31 

Francs,  captain  Hudry  33 

Chasseurs,  captain  Guibert  59 

287 

The  battalion  of  St.  Domingo  men 

of  colour,  major  Daquin  210 

Chactaws,  capt.  Pierre  Jugeant  18 

228 

The  left,  commanded  by  general  Cof 
fee,  was  composed  as  follows: 

Tennessee  volunteer  mounted  rifle 
men,  forming  general  Coffee's 
brigade  563 

Orleans  rifle  company,  capt.  Beale       62 

Mississippi  dragoons,  major  Hinds     107- 

732 

In  all          2131. 

Of  this  number  it  is  to  be  observed  that  the  Mis 
sissippi  dragoons  were  not  in  the  action,  but  were,  all 
the  time  it  lasted,  in  the  back  ground  of  Lacoste's  plan- 


106  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

tation.  Two  companies  of  Coffee's  brigade  had  been 
left  on  the  border  of  Laronde's  plantation,  to  hold 
the  horses  whose  riders  had  all  dismounted;  which 
reduces  the  number  of  fighting  men  to  about  one 
thousand  eight  hundred  effective  men.  Plauche's 
battalion  being  composed  of  companies  wearing  each 
a  distinct  uniform,  the  enemy  took  those  several  com 
panies  for  so  many  battalions,  and  represented  them  as 
such.  I  have  thought  proper  to  rectify  this  misrepre 
sentation,  by  stating  the  number  of  each  particular 
company. 

This  inconsiderable  number  of  men, — strangers 
to  the  art  of  war,  and  of  whom  few  had  ever  seen  an 
engagement;  but  animated  with  that  martial  ardour 
which  is  soon  excited  in  the  breasts  of  men  enjoying 
freedom,  and  indignant  at  seeing  the  soil  of  their 
country,  the  land  of  liberty,  invaded  by  a  mercenary 
soldiery,  who  came  to  renew  in  Louisiana  the  scenes 
of  devastation  and  pillage  recently  exhibited  on  the 
banks  of  the  Potomac  and  the  shores  of  the  Chesa 
peake, — advanced  against  the  enemy  with  eager  ala 
crity.  Several  of  the  corps,  particularly  Plauche's 
battalion,  continued  running  as  they  advanced,  till 
they  arrived  on  the  field  of  battle.  All  impatiently 
longed  to  be  engaged  and  all  were  inspired  with  an 
auspicious  presentiment  of  victory.  In  the  heat  of 
the  action,  the  enemy  was  making  towards  the  cen 
tre  a  movement  which  seemed  to  indicate  that  he 
designed  to  charge  with  bayonets.  Instantly,  the 
desire  of  anticipating  him  electrified  our  ranks,  and 
they  all  expressed  a  wish  to  be  ordered  to  charge. 
This  impetuosity,  however,  the  officers  thought  pro- 
per  to  restrain. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR,  107 

On  the  left  of  general  Coffee's  division,  captain 
Beale's  whole  company  of  riflemen  penetrated  into 
the  midst  of  the  enemy,  without  bayonets  or  any 
other  weapon  of  defence,  except  their  rifles;  support 
ed  by  their  courage,  excited  by  their  love  for  their 
country,  and  breathing  rage  and  vengeance  against 
its  invaders,  these  brave  men,  almost  all  fathers  of  fa 
milies,  holding  offices  of  honour  and  trust,  or  at  the 
head  of  considerable  commercial  houses,  regardless 
of  all  selfish  or  private  considerations,  advanced  rash 
ly  into  the  centre  of  the  hostile  battalions,  where  they 
made  a  number  of  prisoners,  and  carried  them  almost 
all  off;  but,  unfortunately,  not  without  leaving  seve 
ral  of  their  own  companions  prisoners  to  the  foe. 

General  Coffee's  Tennesseans,  those  modest  and 
simple  sons  of  nature,  displayed  that  firm  composure 
which  accompanies  and  indicates  true  courage.  In 
their  expedition  against  Pensacola,  and  on  their  march 
to  New  Orleans,  they  had  given  abundant  proofs  of 
their  bravery,  good  conduct  and  patience,  in  endur 
ing  hardships  and  privations.  Instinctively  valiant, 
disciplined  without  having  passed  through  the  formal 
training  of  reviews  and  garrison  manoeuvres,  they 
evinced  on  this  memorable  night,  that  enthusiasm, 
patriotism,  and  a  sense  of  a  just  cause,  which  were 
of  far  more  avail  than  scientific  tactics.  The  heroes 
of  Wellington,  who  boasted  of  their  military  talents 
and  disciplined  valour,  were  often  doomed,  by  woful 
experience,  to  appreciate  the  prowess  of  those  warlike 
sons  of  the  western  country. 

The  gallant  officer  who  commanded  them,  eve* 
calm?  ever  active,  without  precipitation,  tranquilly 


108  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR, 

giving  orders,  which  he  well  knew  how  to  cause  to 
be  promptly  obeyed;  vigilant  and  provident  to  avoid 
unnecessarily  exposing  his  men,  for  whose  safety  he 
\vas  as  anxious  as  a  father  for  his  son's,  acquired  by 
his  conduct  that  night  the  strongest  claim  to  the -es 
teem  and  gratitude  of  his  country.  Sensible  that  in 
an  incessant  fire  most  of  the  discharges  are  ineffec 
tual,  general  Coffee  led  on  his  men  within  a  sure  dis 
tance,  and  continually  passing  along  the  line,  recom 
mended  to  them  to  take  deliberate  aim,  and  never  to 
fire  at  random. 

Notwithstanding  the  darkness  of  the  night,  and 
the  difficulty  of  manoeuvring  with  two  pieces  of  can 
non  in  a  road  forty  feet  wide,  bordered  with  ditches, 
the  artillery  took  a  position,  and  was  served  with  the 
utmost  promptitude.  It  several  times  forced  the  ene 
my  to  abandon  the  road,  and  to  retire  to  the  levee, 
and  behind  gates  and  the  ridges  beside  the  ditches; 
in  short,  it  contributed  not  a  little  to  convince  the 
enemy  of  our  superiority. 

The  7th  regiment,  commanded  by  major  Peire, 
withstood  and  kept  up  a  very  brisk  fire;  having  first 
come  into  action,  and  having  been  the  longest  en 
gaged  of  all  the  corps  that  took  part  in  it,  that  gallant 
regiment  evinced  that  steadiness,  precision  in  move 
ments,  regularity  and  promptitude  in  firing,  implicit 
obedience  to  the  orders  of  its  commander,  and,  in 
short,  proved  that  the  discipline  that  constitutes  troops 
of  the  line,  do  not  exclusively  belong  to  Europeans. 
The  brave  officers  of  that  regiment,  sacrificing  to  the 
exigency  of  the  moment,  and  to  the  safety  of  the 
country,  all  particular  attachment  to  their  own  corps. 


HISTORICAL   MEM0IR.  109 

which  is  indeed  natural  and  highly  conducive  to  the 
united  strength  of  an  army,  obeyed,  without  a  mur 
mur,  the  orders  of  major  Peire,  an  officer  drawn  from 
another  corps,  whom  general  Jackson,  in  his  discre 
tion,  had  thought  worthy  to  supply  the  place  of  their 
chief,  major  Nicks,  who  was  prevented,  by  an  acci 
dental  wound,  from  leading  his  men  to  victory. 

The  44th  regiment,  which  came  into  action  soon 
after  the  seventh,  though  younger,  and  formed  of 
more  heterogeneous  elements,  fought  with  the  stea 
diness  and  valour  of  veteran  troops.  Forced  conti 
nually  to  oblique  to  the  left,  to  avoid  being  turned  by 
the  enemy,  this  regiment  showed  that  it  was  not  in 
timidated  by  the  enemy's  manoeuvre,  and  vigorously 
returned  his  fire.  Captain  Baker,  who  commanded 
it,  and  all  the  officers  under  him,  though  young  in 
the  art  of  war,  and  little  acquainted  with  military 
evolutions,  displayed  great  bravery,  and  were  not  de 
ficient  in  the  skill  and  judgment  that  the  occasion 
called  for. 

Major  Plauche's  battalion  of  volunteers,  coming 
into  the  line  at  the  moment  when  the  enemy  was 
pressing  hard  upon  the  left  of  the  44th,  and  endea 
vouring  to 'turn  it,  proved,  by  two  or  three  brisk 
and  well-directed  fires,  that  it  was  worthy  to  be  sta 
tioned  by  the  side  of  veteran  troops.  This  corps, 
though  composed  of  several  independent  companies , 
has  ever  been  exemplary  for  perfect  union,  harmony 
and  subordination.  Several  of  its  officers,  who  had 
formerly  followed  the  military  profession,  enjoyed 
the  unlimited  and  well-deserved  confidence  of  their 
men.  These  were  ready  to  follow,  wherever  those 


110  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

might  lead  the  way;  and  to  speak  to  the  former  (all 
of  whom  were  citizens  of  New  Orleans)  of  marching 
against  the  enemy,  was  sufficient  to  exhilarate  their 
spirits,  and  fill  their  hearts  with  exultation.  Almost 
the  whole  of  them  were  Frenchmen  by  birth  or  de 
scent,  'and  bore  an  inveterate  hatred  to  Great  Britain, 
from  whose  government  most  of  them  had  suffered 
wrongs,  which  they  wished  to  avenge.  On  this  try 
ing  occasion  they  flew  to  the  defence  of  the  country 
which  had  kindly  received  them,  and  of  which  they 
were  become  citizens,  with  the  ardour  and  enthu 
siasm  so  characteristic  of  the  French  nation.  Per 
suaded  that  musketry  is  often  destructive,  without 
producing  any  decided  effect,  the  men  of  this  batta 
lion  longed  to  charge  with  bayonets,  and  they  ex 
pressed  their  wishes  by  loud  acclamations.  Already 
had  the  drums  of  the  battalion  began  to  beat  in  com 
pliance  with  their  desire,  and  the  men  waited  only 
for  the  word  of  command  to  fall  on  the  enemy  with 
their  national  weapon,  when  colonel  Ross,  who  had  the 
superior  command  of  the  two  battalions  of  volunteers, 
came  up  to  restrain  their  ardour.  Yet,  had  that  ma 
noeuvre  been  made,  had  Plauche's  battalion  advanced 
to  the  charge,  the  enemy's  retreat  would  have  been 
cut  off  on  his  right,  and  he  would  have  been  com 
pletely  surrounded  by  general  CoiFee's  brigade,  which 
was  advancing  in  his  rear,  Plauche's  battalion  on  his 
left,  Daquin's  in  front,  and  Laronde's  great  hedge 
of  orange  trees  on  the  right;  so  that  most  of  that  co 
lumn  would  have  been  forced  to  lay  down  their  arms. 
The  above  observations,  as  to  Plauche's  battalion, 
are  almost  wholly  applicable  to  that  commanded  by 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  Ill 

major  Daquin.  The  men  composing  it  had  the 
same  motives  of  hatred  towards  the  enemy,  and  of 
gratitude  to  this  country;  for  they  were  almost  all 
men  who  had  long  and  bravely  defended  their  native 
country,  St.  Domingo,  against  the  British,  and  against 
the  rebels,  who  at  length  subdued  it,  and  who,  choos 
ing  rather  to  go  into  exile  than  to  become  accom 
plices  of  the  monsters  who  are  desolating  their  na 
tive  shores,  came  to  this  hospitable  land  to  find  re 
pose  in  the  peaceful  exercise  of  their  industry.  At 
the  call  of  general  Jackson — at  the  cry  of  honour  and 
of  war  against  Britain,  those  brave  men  instantly 
united  and  joined  our  forces.  In  that  memorable 
night  they  showed  that  they  had  not  forgotten  the 
exercise  of  arms;  and  almost  in  contact  with  the  ene 
my  on  the  left,  they  convinced  him  that  in  Louisiana,  as 
formerly  in  St.  Domingo,  they  should  always  expe 
rience  from  them  a  vigorous  opposition. 

It  would  not  be  proper  for  one  whose  name  has 
appeared  in  general  orders,  to  make  particular  men 
tion  of  the  several  individuals  who  distinguished 
themselves  on  this  occasion:  he  might  expose  him 
self  to  be  taxed  with  partiality,  or  even  to  be  re 
proached  with  injustice.  I  therefore  refer  the  rea 
der,  for  such  details,  to  the  general  orders,  and  to 
the  major- general's  letters  to  the  secretary  of  war. 
(See  Appendix,  No.  2,5.) 

But  I  cannot  decline  paying  the  tribute  of  jus 
tice  to  general  Jackson,  to  say  that  no  man  could 
possibly  have  shown  more  personal  valour,  more 
firmness  and  composure,  than  was  exhibited  by  him 
through  the  whole  of  this  engagement,  on  which  de- 


112  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

pended,  perhaps,  the  fate  of  Louisiana.  I  may  say, 
without  fearing  to  be  taxed  with  adulation,  that  on 
the  night  of  the  23d,  general  Jackson  exposed  him 
self  rather  too  much.  I  saw  him  in  advance  of  all 
who  were  near  him,  at  a  time  when  the  enemy  was 
making  a  charge  on  the  artillery,  within  pistol  shot, 
in  the  midst  of  a  shower  of  bullets,  and  in  that  situa 
tion  I  observed  him  spiriting  and  urging  on  the  ma 
rines,  and  the  right  of  the  seventh  regiment,  who, 
animated  by  the  presence  and  voice  of  their  gallant 
commander- in -chief,  attacked  the  enemy  so  briskly, 
that  they  soon  forced  him  to  retire. 


THE  result  of  the  affair  of  the  23d  was  the  saving 
of  Louisiana;  for  it  cannot  be  doubted  but  that  the 
enemy,  had  he  not  been  attacked  with  such  impe 
tuosity,  when  he  had  hardly  eifected  his  disembarka 
tion,  would,  that  very  night,  or  early  next  morning, 
have  marched  against  the  city,  which  was  not  then 
covered  by  any  fortification,  and  was  defended  by 
hardly  five  thousand  men,  mostly  militia,  who  could 
not,  in  the  open  field,  have  withstood  disciplined 
troops,  accustomed  to  the  use  of  the  bayonet,  a  wea 
pon  with  which  most  of  the  militia  were  unprovided, 

Aware  of  this,  the  commander-in-chief  was  sensi 
ble  of  the  necessity  of  immediately  taking  a  position 
where  he  might  throw  up  intrenchments;  and  accord 
ingly,  at  four  in  the  morning  of  the  24th,  he  order 
ed  his  little  army  to  go  and  encamp  on  the  left  bank 
of  Rodriguez's  canal,  about  two  miles  behind  the 
field  of  battle,  The  Mississippi  mounted  riflemen, 


.HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  113 

and  the  Feliciana  dragoons,  with  the  7th  regiment, 
were  left  at  Laronde's,  in  order  to  observe  the  ene 
my's  movements. 

Early  next  morning  the  enemy  was  seen  drawn 
up  at  the  distance  of  about  three  hundred  yards  from 
Laronde's  boundary,  occupying  the  space  between 
the  two  levees.  (See  the  plan  of  the  affair  of  the 
23d.)  On  the  front  boundary  line  was  stationed  a 
strong  detachment.  Towards  eight  o'clock,  the  Bri 
tish  line  broke,  and  the  troops  returned  to  their  en 
campment.  They  occupied  the  whole  of  the  front, 
and  the  greater  part  of  the  back  of  Lacoste's  planta 
tion.  The  whole  extent  of  its  principal  ditch  was 
lined  with  British  troops,  and  there  ran  an  oblique 
line  of  sentries  from  their  advanced-posts  on  the 
road  to  the  wood. 

All  this  day  our  troops  were  employed  in  work 
ing  on  the  intrenchments  on  Rodriguez's  canal;  the 
two  six-pounders  that  had  served  on  the  preceding 
night  were  now  mounted  behind  the  line,  on  the 
bank  of  the  river,  to  command  the  road.  I  received 
orders  from  the  commander-m-chief,  to  cause  the 
levee  to  be  cut,  on  the  fore-ground  of  Chalmette's 
plantation,  for  the  purpose  of  overflowing  the  ground 
in  front  of  our  line;  which  was  effected  by  several 
trenches,  which  let  in  a  sufficient  quantity  of  water 
to  render  the  road  impracticable  for  troops.  But  the 
temporary  swell  of  the  river  having  subsided,  that 
measure  proved  at  last  ineffectual,  for  on  the  28th 
the  river  was  nearly  on  a  level  with  the  road. 

Nothing  of  importance  took  place  in  the  course 
of  the  threo  following  days.  Parties  of  our  troops 


114  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

frequently  went  out  to  reconnoitre.  Major  Hinds, 
with  his  cavalry,  several  time  sdisplayed  in  sight  of 
the  enemy,  who  never  ventured  out  of  his  position. 
In  this  interval  he  landed  the  rest  of  his  troops,  with 
his  artillery,  stores,  and  provision's. 

The  enemy,  on  this  and  the  following  day,  cut  up 
;he  road  by  an  epaulment  with  a  ditch,  on  the  boun 
dary  line  between  Lacoste's  and  Laronde's,  at  the 
distance  of  one  hundred  yards  towards  his  encamp 
ment,  and  at  the  back  of  the  levee,  opposite  the  sloop 
of  war,  the  Louisiana,  which  wras  at  anchor  near  the 
right  bank.  On  the  26th,  the  enemy  was  employed 
day  and  night  in  preparing  a  battery  on  the  most  ad 
vanced  angle  of  the  levee,  towards  the  west  side  of 
Villere's  plantation,  for  the  purpose  of  firing  on 
the  schooner  Carolina,  which  was  at  anchor  near 
the  right  bank,  opposite  to  it. 

Major  Nicks,  who,  by  reason  of  an  accidental 
wound,  being  incapable  of  active  service,  had  been 
placed  at  the  head  of  the  arsenal  and  ordnance  de 
partment,  the  duties  of  which  station  he  performed 
with  a  zeal  worthy  of  the  highest  praise,  had  been 
ordered  the  preceding  day  to  remove  the  powder 
which  was  stored  in  great  quantities  in  the  magazine 
opposite  the  city,  on  board  a  vessel  prepared  to  de 
ceive  and  convey  it  to  Baton  Rouge,  reserving  only 
such  quantity  as  captain  Humphreys  should  judge 
necessary  for  the  daily  service. 

On  the  same  day  it  was  reported  verbally  to  ge 
neral  Jackson,  that  the  enemy  had  landed  at  Chef- 
Menteur,  and  that,  in  consequence  of  that  event,  ma 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  115 

jor  Lacoste,  who*commanded  the  post  at  the  conflu 
ence  of  bayou  Sauvage  and  Chef-Menteur  river,  had 
found  himself  under  the  necessity  of  abandoning  it, 
and  of  removing  his  camp  three  miles  back,  on  the 
principal  plantation  of  Lafon.  This  report  had 
alarmed  all  the  troops  stationed  in  the  plain  of  Gen^ 
tilly,  insomuch  that  every  officer  and  private  appre 
hended  an  attack,  though  in  that  quarter  the  enemy 
could  make  no  movement,  from  which  danger  could 
be  apprehended,  without  undergoing  the  greatest  fa 
tigues  and  surmounting  unheard-of  difficulties.  Ma 
jor  Lacoste  informed  the  general-in-chief,  by  letter, 
of  the  movement  he  had  concluded  to  make,  to  avoid 
being  intercepted  in  his  rear.  The  prairies  of  Chef- 
Menteur  were  at  that  time  very  dry,  and  several  ba 
yous  admitted  of  the  enemy's  approaching  within  a 
very  short  distance  of  Lafon's  principal  plantation. 
Some  soldiers  had  even  seen  and  pursued  in  a  prairie 
some  British  sailors,  who  had  landed  to  set  fire  to  the 
dry  grass.  Such  circumstances  indicated  an  intention 
in  the  enemy  to  penetrate  on  that  side;  and  hence  the 
retrograde  movement,  made  by  major  Lacoste,  was 
proper  and  judicious.  When  he  determined  on  re 
treating,  he  had  the  precaution  to  leave  a  piquet  at  the 
encampment  he  quitted,  to  give  information  of  any 
movement  the  enemy  might  make  by  the  river  of 
Chef-Menteur. 

General  Jackson  ordered  me  to  repair  with  all 
speed  to  Chef-Meriteur,  with  a  re-enforcement  of  two 
hundred  men  from  general  Coffee's  brigade,  com 
manded  by  colpnel  N  *  *  *  *,  who  was  to   take 


116  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

command  of  the  post  of  Chef-Mcnteur,  reoccupy  the 
point  of  the  confluence,  finish  the  closed  battery  that 
had  been  begun  by  major  Lacoste's  battalion,  and  to 
leave  on  the  main  plantation  a  detachment  sufficient 
to  cover  the  retreat,  in  the  event  of  its  becoming  ne 
cessary,  and  keep  open  the  communication  with  the 
city.  As  to  the  manner  of  executing  these  orders, 
that  was  left  to  the  discretion  of  colonel  N  *  *  *  *, 
major  Lacoste,  and  myself. 

I  must  be  allowed  here  to  express  the  pleasure  1 
felt  on  being  ordered  on  such  service.  The  perfect 
knowledge  I  had  of  the  situation,  which  left  on  my 
mind  no  doubt  of  our  being  able,  with  three  hundred 
riflemen,  to  rout  ten  times  that  number  of  the  enemy, 
animated  me  with  joyful  assurance  of  success;  and 
had  the  enemy,  dared  to  penetrate  into  the  wood  of 
Chef-Menteur,  the  opinion  I  had  of  the  Louisianians 
composing  major  Lacoste's  battalion,  and  of  the  gal 
lant  Tenriesseans,  whom  I  was  ordered  to  accompany, 
made  me  fully  confident  of  his  complete  discomfiture. 

On  arriving  at  the  advanced  post  on  Bertoniere's 
estate,  we  discovered  that  the  report  of  the  land 
ing  of  the  enemy  was  false.  It  was  decided  that  the 
detachment  should  encamp  on  Dreux's  plantation 
until  further  orders.  The  same  day  I  repaired  to 
major  Lacoste's  camp,  which  he  had  judiciously 
established,  with  the  bivouacs  close  to  the  skirt  of  the 
wood,  so  that,  in,  case  of  surprise,  the  men  could  in 
stantly  get  among  the  trees,  from  behind  which  the}7 
might  fire  with  the  more  advantage,  as  they  were  co 
vered  by  very  thick  under  wood. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  117 

On  the  same  day  general  Morgan  received  orders 
to  evacuate  the  post  at  the  Turn,  transporting  the  ar 
tillery  to  fort  St.  Leon,  and  leaving  there  a  garrison 
of  one  hundred  men,  and  to  take  a  position  on  the  right 
bank,  opposite  Camp  Jackson;  which  was  according 
ly  executed,  and  the  troops  encamped  on  Flood's 
plantation.  The  two  six-pounders  placed  opposite 
the  road,  under  the  command  of  lieutenant  Spotts, 
were  replaced  by  the  twelves  commanded  by  captain 
Humphreys,  and  were  established  in  the  centre  of  the 
line. 

Next  day,  the  26th,  major  Lacoste  returned  with 
me  to  head-quarters,  where  he  requested  and  obtain 
ed  permission  for  his  battalion  to  take  a  station  on  the 
lines  at  Camp  Jackson.  Orders  were  given  for  his 
being  relieved  by  the  4th  regiment  of  Louisiana  mi 
litia,  colonel  G.  W.  Morgan,  one  hundred  and  thirty 
strong,  with  two  mounted  companies  of  Tennesseans, 
a  detachment  of  artillery  of  the  line,  commanded  by 
lieutenant  Bosque,  with  two  field  pieces,  and  about 
thirty  Chactaw  Indians.  This  force,  commanded  by 
colonel  G.  W.  Morgan,  occupied  the  former  position 
on  the  river  of  Chef-Menteur  until  the  6th  of  Janua 
ry,  when  it  returned  to  the  camp  of  the  main  planta 
tion. 

The  general-in-chief  sent  orders  to  general  Mor 
gan  to  cause  the  levee  to  be  cut  below  the  ene 
my,  at  Jumonville's,  as  near  his  posts  as  possible, 
in  order  to  prevent  his  extending  them.  This  ope 
ration  was  promptly  and  successfully  executed,  un 
der  the  direction  of  major  Lafon,  the  engineer  attached 
to  the  division  of  the  right  bank,  within  musket-shot 


118  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

of  the  enemy's  advanced  sentries;  but  here,  as  before 
Jackson's  lines,  the  river  frustrated  our  views;  and  a 
measure  which,  had  the  river  continued  to  rise, 
would  have  made  an  island  of  the  enemy's  en 
campment,  and  secured  us  from  any  attack,  by 
forcing  him  to  evacuate,  produced  a  very  different 
effect,  as  it  introduced  sufficient  water  into  the  canals, 
and  bayous,  which  till  then  were  nearly  dry,  to  ena 
ble  the  British  to  bring  up  their  heavy  artillery. 

On  the  27th,  at  7  o'clock  in  the  morning,  the 
enemy  opened  on  the  Carolina  the  fire  of  a  battery  of 
several  twelve  and  eighteen-pounders,  and  a  howitzer, 
which  he  had  been  forty-eight  hours  erecting.  In 
about  fifteen  minutes,  the  schooner  was  set  on  fire  by 
the  red-hot  shot  thrown  into  her,  and  in  that  condi 
tion  the  crew  abandoned  her.  About  an  hour  after, 
she  blew  up;  and  now  the  fire  of  the  battery  was  di 
rected  against  the  Louisiana,  whose  preservation  was 
the  more  important,  as  she  was  the  only  remaining 
armed  vessel  in  the  river,  and  as  her  powder  maga 
zine  was  above  water.  Lieutenant  Thompson,  who 
commanded  her,  endeavoured  to  take  advantage  of  a 
light  breeze  from  the  east,  to  sail  up  the  river;  but 
the  wind  having  died  away  whilst  the  sails  ivere  un 
furling,  there  remained  no  other  expedient  than  that 
of  towing  her  up.  Accordingly,  one  hundred  men 
of  his  crew  soon  towed  her  without  the  range  of  the 
enemy's  guns,  and  she  was  moored  opposite  to  Flood's, 
canal.  In  the  evening,  the  1st  regiment  of  Louisiana 
militia,  under  colonel  Dejan,  was  ordered  from  its 
position  at  Gent  illy,  and  went,  to  re -enforce  the  lines 
on  the  left. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  119 


AFFAIR  OF  THE  28th  DECEMBER,  1814. 

IN  the  evening  of  the  27th  the  enemy  moved  for- 
ward,  and  by  the  superiority  of  his  force,  obliged  our 
advanced-guards  to  fall  back.  He  occupied  Bienve- 
nu's  and  Chalmette's  plantations;  and  during  the  night 
began  to  establish  several  batteries  on  the  river.  By 
break  of  day,  he  displayed  in  several  columns,  and 
drove  in  all  our  advanced-guards.  Our  posts  had  till 
this  day  occupied  Laronde's  plantation,  and  our  re 
connoitring  parties  were  extended  daily  as  far  as  his 
lines.  Major  Hinds,  with  the  cavalry  and  the  7th  re 
giment,  had  neglected  no  opportunity  of  harassing  the 
enemy;  and  the  advanced  sentries  and  piquets  had  of 
ten  exchanged  with  him  a  few  shots.  The  2d  regi 
ment  of  Louisiana  militia  now  took  a  position  on  the 
left  of  the  line. 

At  length  the  British,  having  begun  to  push  for 
wards  against  our  lines,  all  our  out-posts  fell  back. 
The  general- in- chief  had  ordered  colonel  Mackrea, 
the  commander  of  the  artillery,  to  fire  and  blow  up 
all  the  buildings  on  Chalmette's  plantation,  which  lay 
within  five  or  six  hundred  yards  of  our  lines,  as  they 
protected  the  enemy  from  our  artillery.  This  order 
was  accordingly  executed,  but  its  execution  could 
not  be  extended  to  Bienvenu's  plantation,  as  expedi 
ence  required,  and  as  the  positive  orders  of  the  gene- 
ral-in-chief  had  directed. 

The  enemy  advanced  in  columns  on  the  road, 
preceded  by  several  pieces  of  artillery,  some  of  which 
played  on  the  ship  Louisiana,  and  the  others,  on  our 


120  HISTORICAL    MEMOIR. 

lines.  The  British,  in  this  instance,  gave  a  signal 
proof  of  their  presumption;  and  while  we  do  justice 
to  the  bravery  of  their  troops,  we  cannot  but  pity  the 
infatuation  of  their  commanders,  who  thus  brought 
up  their  army  to  lines  which,  though  not  completed, 
were  yet  proof  against  musket- shot,  and  had  already 
five  pieces  of  cannon  in  battery.  They  thought,  no 
doubt,  to  intimidate  us  by  their  boldness,  hoping  that 
the  sight  of  a  deep  column  marching  against  our 
lines,  would  strike  such  terror  as  to  make  us  abandon 
them,  and  retreat  to  the  city;  but  they  were  greatly 
deceived.  They  did  not  yet  know  with  what  adversa 
ries  they  had  to  contend,  nor  that  they  were  destined 
to  atone  for  their  arrogance  with  streams  of  their  blood. 
The  Louisiana  suffered  the  enemy's  columns  to  ad 
vance  a  considerable  space;  and  as  soon  as  they  had 
got  as  near  to  her. as  her  commander  wished,  she 
opened  on  them  a  tremendous  and  well-directed  fire. 
This  was  at  first  briskly  answered  by  the  enemy's  ar 
tillery,  which  was  soon  silenced  by  the  guns  of  the 
ship,  and  those  of  our  lines.  That  very  morning  the 
engineer,  H.  S.  Bonneval  Latrobe,  had  established, 
under  the  fire  of  the  enemy's  artillery  and  a  cloud  of 
rockets,  a  twenty-four  pounder  on  the  left  of  the  bat 
tery  No.  1,  on  the  line.  This  gun  dismounted  one 
of  the  field  pieces  which  the  enemy  had  placed  in 
battery  on  the  road.  Captain  Humphrey s's  battery 
had  incessantly  played  upon  and  severely  galled  him 
from  an  early  hour  in  the  morning;  but  the  guns 
of  the  Louisiana,  from  her  position,  were  better 
calculated  than  any  other  to  annoy  him,  as  her  broad 
side  was  in  an  oblique  direction  to  his  line  of  march.. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  121 

One  single  ball  from  her  killed  fifteen  of  his  men. 
Her  fire  at  last  broke  his  columns,  and  forced  them 
to  disperse  and  fall  back  into  the  fields,  where  they 
took  a  position  on  Bienvenu's  plantation,  under  cover 
of  some  buildings. 

It  is  but  justice  to  say,  that  the  services  rendered 
on  this  day  by  the  Louisiana,  were  of  the  greatest 
importance.  The  cannonading  lasted  seven  hours, 
during  which  she  fired  upwards  of  eight  hundred  shot. 
The  spirited  exertions  of  her  commander,  lieutenant 
Thompson,  on  that  occasion,  cannot  be  too  highly 
commended.  (See  Appendix,  No.  26.) 

During  this  engagement  the  enemy  abandoned 
several  batteries  he  had  established  on  the  river  the 
preceding  night;  and  his  loss,  in  other  respects,  was 
considerable. 

Two  days  previous  to  this  engagement,  general 
Carroll's  troops  had  taken  post  on  the  prolongation  of 
Rodriguez's  canal,  and  had  worked  without  intermis 
sion  at  the  breastwork  of  the  lines,  which,  until  the 
1st  of  January,  had  towards  the  left  hardly  more  than 
sufficient  thickness  to  protect  the  men  from  musket 
ry.  During  the  whole  day,  the  enemy  incessantly 
threw  Congreve  rockets,  which  wounded  some  of  our 
men.  By  one  of  these,  major  Carmick,  of  the  ma 
rines,  had  his  horse  killed,  and  was  himself  wounded 
in  the  hand.  The  British  had  great  expectation  from 
the  effect  of  this  weapon,  against  an  enemy  who  had 
never  seen  it  before.  They  hoped  that  its  very  noise 
would  strike  terror  into  us;  but  we  soon  grew  accus 
tomed  to  it,  and  thought  it  little  formidable;  for  in 
the  whole  course  of  the  campaign,  the  rockets  only 


122  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

wounded  ten  men,  and  blew  up  two  caissons.  That 
weapon  must  doubtless  be  effectual  to  throw  amongst1 
squadrons  of  cavalry,  and  frighten  the  horses,  or  to 
set  fire  to  houses;  but  from  the  impossibility  of  di 
recting  it  with  any  certainty,  it  will  ever  be  a  very 
precarious  weapon  to  use  against  troops  drawn  up  in 
line  of  battle,  or  behind  ramparts. 

The  twenty-four-pounder  just  mentioned,  was 
served  in  the  beginning  of  the  action  by  a  detachment 
of  captain  St.  Gemes's  dismounted  dragoons,  and  af 
terwards  by  a  part  of  the  crew  of  the  late  Carolina, 
commanded  by  lieutenant  Norris.  About  eight  in 
the  morning  captain  Dominique's  artillery  company, 
then  about  twenty  men  strong,  returned  from  fort  St. 
John,  whither  it  had  been  sent  on  the  23d,  and  was 
stationed  on  the  lines;  to  it  was  committed  the 
service  of  a  twenty-four-pounder,  battery  No.  3, 
which  had  been  mounted  the  preceding  evening. 
These  mariners,  all  veteran  gunners,  served  their 
piece  with  the  steadiness  and  precision  of  men  prac 
tised  in  the  management  of  cannon,  and  inured  to 
warfare;  and  the  battery  No.  3  was  not  the  least  de 
structive  to  the  enemy  during  the  campaign. 

Lieutenant  Crawley,  with  another  part  of  the  crew 
of  the  Carolina,  repaired  to  the  lines  on  the  morning 
of  the  28th,  and  during  the  whole  of  the  action  serv 
ed  a  howitzer  at  the  battery  No.  1.  In  the  evening, 
general  Jackson  having  ordered  a  thirty-two-pounder 
to  be  mounted  in  the  centre  of  the  line,  lieutenant 
Crawley  caused  the  platform  to  be  established,  and 
had  the  piece  mounted  in  the  night. 

The  first  regiment  of  Louisiana  militia  had  taken 
a-  position  on  the  right,  the  preceding  evening,  and 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  123 

remained  on  the  line  during  the  whole  of  the.  action 
of  the  28th.  On  the  morning  of  the  same  day,  the 
2d  regiment  received  orders  to  re-enforce  the  ex 
tremity  of  the  left,  which  was  under  the  command  of 
general  Coffee. 

We  lost  on  that  day  seven  men,  and  had  ten 
wounded:  amongst  the  former  was  colonel  Hender 
son,  of  the  Tennessee  division,  under  general  Carroll. 
The  enemy's  light  troops  having  advanced  along 
a  ditch  to  a  fence  which  ran  in  an  oblique  direction  to 
our  lines,  its  extremity  being  only  at  the  distance  of 
one  hundred  yards,  opened  an  irregular  fire  on  our  out 
posts: — general  Carroll  ordered  colonel  Henderson  to 
advance  with  a  detachment  of  two  hundred  men  along 
the  wood,  and  then  to  make  an  oblique  movement  on 
the  right,  towards  the  river,  arid  endeavour  to  turn  the 
enemy,  who,  by  this  manoeuvre,  would  have  been  cut 
off.  Instead  of  executing  this  order,  colonel  Hen 
derson  advanced  towards  the  right,  leaving  the  fence 
between  him  and  the  wood:  the  enemy  being  thus 
covered  by  the  fence,  opened  on  our  detachment  a 
galling  fire,  which  killed  the  colonel  and  five  men, 
and  forced  the  others  to  fall  back.  The  enemy  re- oc 
cupied  the  fence,  where  he  maintained  his  position 
until  our  artillery  once  more  dislodged  him. 

From  the  destruction  that  our  artillery  dealt  in 
the  enemy's  ranks,  and  from  the  report  of  a  prisoner 
and  some  deserters,  the  British  must  have  lost  from 
two  to  three  hundred  men  on  that  day. 

The  Louisiana  had  but  one  man  slightly  wounded 
by  the  bursting  of  a  shell,  and  the  vessel  was  struck 
under  her  bowsprit  by  a  red-hot  shot,  but  without 
receiving  any  damage.  (See  Appendix,  No.  27.) 


124  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

It  appears  that  this  attack  was  but  a  feint,  to  try 
what  effect  would  he  produced  on  raw  troops  by  the 
sight  of  columns  marching,  displaying,  and  forming 
in  order  of  battle.  But  if  after  the  night  of  the  23d 
the  enemy  could  still  have  any  doubt  of  our  being 
firmly  disposed  to  withstand  him,  the  affair  of  the 
28th  must  have  convinced  him  that  his  manoeuvres 
could  no  more  intimidate  us  than  his  rockets,  and  that 
in  whatever  manner  he  might  attack  us,  he  would 
find  men  defending  themselves  with  valour  and  intre 
pidity,  and  determined  to  sell  their  lives  dearly.  That 
attack  served  at  least  to  convince  the  enemy  that  he 
must  expect  a  most  obstinate  resistance,  if  he  at 
tempted  to  force  our  lines;  and  that  perhaps,  after  ha 
ving  sacrificed  numbers  of  his  men,  he  might  be  once 
more  obliged  to  retire  within  his  camp,  with  the 
shame  of  having  made  a  useless  and  disgraceful  at 
tempt.  He  had  now  witnessed  the  effect  of  our  ar 
tillery,  which  was  soon  to  prove  to  him,  beyond  all 
doubt,  our  superiority  in  skill,  promptitude,  and  pre 
cision  in  firing. 


It  was  ordered  by  general  Jackson  that  fortified 
lines  should  be  established  on  the  right  bank  from  the 
river  to  the  Cypress  swamp,  behind  general  Morgan's 
encampment.  For  that  purpose  I  made  choice  of  Bois- 
gervais'  canal,  three  miles  from  the  city.  One  hundred 
and  fifty  negroes,  under  the  direction  of  Mr.Lefevre, 
in  six  days  completed  the  parapet,  the  wh  )le  length 
of  the  canal,  and  levelled  the  earth  to  form  a  glacis 
on  the  opposite  side.  It  will  be  seen  in  the  sequel, 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  125 

that  it  was  behind  those  lines,  which  we  had  not  time 
to  complete  and  secure  with  bastions  and  redoubts, 
that  general  Morgan  s  troops  rallied  after  their  flight, 
on  the  memorable  8th  of  January. 

Captain  Henley,  of  the  late  Carolina,  came  also 
next  day  to  take  command  of  a  square  redoubt,  form 
ed  by  a  brick-kiln,  opposite  the  city,  on  the  very  bank 
of  the  river.  A  fosse  twenty -five  feet  wide  was 
dug  all  round  it,  and  the  earth  from  it  served  to 
form  a  very  steep  glacis  from  the  summit  of  the 
wall,  serving  as  a  parapet,  to  the  brink  of  the  fosse. 
A  palisade  extended  along  its  whole  length  on  the 
inside.  The  redoubt  was  furnished  with  a  small  pow 
der  magazine,  and  was  mounted  with  two  twenty-four- 
pounders.  Its  battery  commanded  at  once  the  road 
and  the  river. 

From  all  accounts  it  appears  that  at  that  time  the 
British  troops  of  the  line  amounted  to  between  nine 
and  ten  thousand  men.  General  Gibbs'  division 
had  landed,  and  sir  Edward  Packenham  had  taken  the 
command  of  the  army.  The  British  head -quarters 
were  at  the  house  of  general  Villere;  their  hospitals 
were  established  in  the  buildings  of  Jumonville's  plan 
tation,  where  their  black  troops  were  stationed.  The 
British  had  taken  all  the  horses  belonging  to  the  plan 
tations,  from  Bienvenu's  to  Jumonville's  inclusively; 
the  finest  were  picked  out  for  the  officers  of  the  staff, 
the  others  served  to  mount  a  squadron  of  dragoons, 
or  to  draw  the  artillery.  Their  reconnoitring  par 
ties  advanced  as  far  as  Philipon's  plantation,  where 
they  established  a  post  of  black  troops,  which  conti 
nued  there  until  their  final  evacuation.  The  meat 


126  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

served  out  to  the  troops  was  at  first  supplied  by  the 
cattle  of  the  several  plantations  they  occupied;  and 
when  this  supply  was  exhausted,  they  had  recourse 
to  the  cattle  of  the  nearest  plantations  successively, 
as  far  as  the  end  of  Terre-aux-Boeufs,  and  even  to 
Morgan's  plantation  at  the  Turn;  the  cattle  of  which 
they  had  almost  entirely  consumed  at  the  period  of 
their  evacuation. 

On  the  29th  lieutenant  Spotts  transported  his  two 
six-pounders  to  the  extremity  of  the  line,  not  far  from 
the  wood,  and  the  detachment  of  the  company  of 
Francs,  under  the  immediate  command  of  lieutenant 
Bertel,  established  a  platform  for  a  twelve-pounder 
towards  the  left,  between  that  of  colonel  Perry  and 
that  of  lieutenant  Spotts. 

Commodore  Patterson,  on  that  day,  caused  to  be 
landed  from  the  Louisiana  two  twelve-pounders, 
which  he  placed  in  battery  behind  the  levee,  in  front 
of  Jourdan's  plantation,  on  the  right  bank;  and  the 
following  night  he  established  a  twenty-four-pounder 
beside  the  former.  These  pieces,  with  several  others 
afterwards  mounted,  formed  the  marine  battery,  which 
rendered  such  important  services  during  the  remain 
der  of  the  campaign.  They  were  served  entire 
ly  by  sailors,  mostly  landed  from  the  Louisiana, 
who  had  been  enlisted  or  pressed  in  the  streets  of 
New  Orleans,  after  the  capture  of  the  gun-boats. 
Those  sailors  were  almost  all  of  different  nations, 
hardly  one-third  of  them  speaking  English:  but  the 
care  of  lieutenant  Thompson,  in  establishing  excel 
lent  discipline  among  them,  rendered  eminent  service; 
for  it  may  justly  be  said  that  never  were  guns  better 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  127 

served.  The  position  commanded  the  left  flank  of 
the  enemy,  who  was  compelled  to  remove  his  camp 
to  the  back  grounds  of  Laronde's  and  Bienvenu's 
plantations,  and  to  abandon  Chalmette's  and  Bienve 
nu's  houses,  where  several  corps  and  officers  had  al 
ready  taken  up  their  cantonments,  in  which  the  ma 
rine  battery  never  suffered  them  to  enjoy  one  mo 
ment's  repose.  All  the  buildings  and  fences  of  those 
plantations  bear  marks  which  attest  how  well  the  fire 
of  that  battery  was  directed.  The  enemy  was  even 
obliged  to  make  several  small  epaulments,  advanced 
one  before  the  other,  to  cover  the  left  of  his  camp,  on 
the  lower  boundary  of  Bienvenu's  plantation.  The 
smallest  group  of  British  soldiers  that  was  any  where 
perceived,  was  instantly  saluted  with  a  discharge  of 
cannon;  so  that  this  battery  rendered  it  impossible  for 
the  enemy  to  attempt  any  reconnoissance  on  the 
river. 

From  the  28th  of  December  to  the  1st  of  Janua 
ry,  the  sloop  of  war  every  morning  dropped  down  to 
the  station  which  she  occupied  on  the  28th,  and  re 
turned  every  night  opposite  Cazelar's  plantation. 

In  the  evening,  colonel  Haines,  inspector- general, 
accompanied  by  colonel  Reuben  Kemper,  a  volunteer 
in  the  Feliciana  troop,  went,  by  order  of  general  Jack 
son,  to  reconnoitre  in  the  Cypress  swamp  on  the 
left,  and  ascertained  that  it  was  impossible  for  the 
enemy  to  penetrate  by  that  way.  It  even  appears 
that  he  was  himself  under  great  apprehension  from 
that  quarter;  for,  during  the  whole  campaign,  there 
was  no  instance  of  the  enemy's  having  posted  a  sin 
gle  picket  immediately  on  the  skirt  of  the  wood,  so 


128  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

much  did  he  fear  lest  our  riflemen  should  come  on 
him  unawares,  and  shoot  down  the  men;  to  avoid 
which  he  kept  his  out-posts  beyond  musket-shot 
of  the  wood.  The  Tennesseans,  on  account  of 
their  well-known  skill  at  the  rifle,  were  the  terror  of 
the  British  sentinels  and  advanced -posts.  Their  uni 
form,  consisting  of  a  brown  hunting  dress,  rendered 
it  difficult  to  perceive  them  among  the  underwood 
and  dry  grass  through  which  they  approached,  to 
shoot  down  the  British  sentinels,  whom  they  never 
missed.  One  single  incident,  which  occurred  about 
that  time,  will  suffice  to  give  an  idea  of  the  dread  in 
which  the  British  were  of  the  Tennesseans,  whom 
they  denominated  dirty  shirts.  An  old  inhabitant  of 
Tennessee  obtained  from  his  officers  leave  to  go  on 
what  they  called  a  hunting  party.  He  stole  along 
through  ditches  and  underwood,  till  he  got  near  a 
British  sentinel,  whom  he  immediately  killed;  and 
having  seized  his  arms  and  accoutrements,  he  laid 
them  at  some  distance  from  that  place,  and  went  to 
post  himself  in  a  different  direction.  When  it  was 
time  to  relieve  the  sentinel,  the  corporal  of  the  guard 
finding  him  dead,  posted  another  in  the  same  place, 
where  the  guard  had  hardly  left  him,  when  the  Ten- 
nessean  shot  him  down;  and  having  conveyed  his  arms 
and  accoutrements  to  the  spot  where  he  had  left  those 
of  the  man  he  had  killed  before,  he  again  went  to  lie  in 
wait  in  another  place.  The  corporal,  in  his  next 
round,  had  again  to  relieve  a  dead  sentinel,  and  the 
man  who  took  his  place  soon  shared  the  fate  of  the 
two  others;  the  Tennessean  taking  the  same  care  to 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  129 

secure  his  arms  and  accoutrements,  and  then  posting 
himself  in  another  place.  At  last  the  corporal,  ama 
zed  to  see  that  in  one  night  three  sentinels  had  been 
killed  at  one  post,  determined  to  expose  no  more 
men  in  so  dangerous  a  spot.  Our  Tennessean  seeing 
this,  returned  to  camp  with  the  spoils  of  the  slain, 
and  received  the  felicitations  of  his  comrades. 

The  company  of  marines,  commanded  by  lieute 
nant  Belle vue,  which,  from  the  lines  being  first  occu 
pied,  had  been  stationed  in  the  centre,  was  removed 
to  the  left,  near  lieutenant  Spott's  battery,  where  it 
continued  until  the  evacuation. 

The  1st  regiment  of  Louisiana  militia,  under 
colonel  Dejan,  was  ordered  to  take  a  position  in  the 
wood  on  the  bank  of  the  canal  of  Piernas's  planta 
tion.  An  advanced-post  had  been  stationed  at  the 
mouth  of  the  canal,  in  the  bayou  Bienvenu,  for  the 
purpose  of  watching  the  manoeuvres  which  the  ene 
my  might  attempt  by  that  canal,  at  tjie  mouth  of 
which  it  was  possible  he  might  ascend  with  schoon 
ers.  The  first  regiment  was  ordered  to  furnish  in 
termediate  posts,  and  to  support  them  all  in  case  of 
an  attack. 

It  was  the  mor.e  important  to  guard  the  Piernas 
canal,  as  it  was  the  only  point  by  which  the  enemy 
could  have  penetrated,  on  ascending  the  bayou  Bien 
venu. 

General  Jackson  sent  orders  to  the  mayor  of  New 
Orleans,  directing  him  to  make  domiciliary  visits  in 
town,  for  the  purpose  of  ascertaining  what  .arms  were 
ifi  the  possession  of  private  persons, 


130  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

On  the  morning  of  the  30th,  major-general 
lere,  commanding  the  first  division  of  Louisiana  mili 
tia,  arrived  from  the  Acadian  coast,  whither  he  had 
gone  to  forward  the  arrival  of  the  militia,  of  whom 
three  hundred  next  day  encamped  behind  the  line 
Dupre. 

General  Villere  took  also  the  command  of  the 
troops  stationed  on  the  Piernas  canal.  Major  Hinds, 
at  the  head  of  the  cavalry,  went  out  on  reconnoi 
tring  towards  the  enemy's  advanced-posts  on  the 
right.  His  troop  sustained  the  fire  of  all  the  out 
posts,  and  three  dragoons  were  wounded.  Our  ar 
tillery,  especially  that  of  the  centre  batteries  which 
was  of  heavy  metal,  galled  the  enemy  without  discon 
tinuance.  The  thirty-two-pounder,  commanded  by 
lieutenant  Crawley,  and  captain  Dominique's  twenty- 
four-pounder,  were  principally  directed  against  the 
redoubt  which  the  enemy  was  throwing  up  towards 
the  wood.  Notwithstanding  its  great  distance,  most 
of  the  balls  struck  the  parapet,  demolishing  the  vvork5 
and  killing  many  men.  Neither  did  the  marine  bat 
tery  on  the  right  bank  neglect  any  opportunity  of 
annoying  the  enemy  in  his  camp,  or  in  his  posts.  On 
that  day  the  enemy  began  to  establish  in  front  of 
Bienvenu's  house,  a  battery  of  hogsheads  of  sugar, 
ranged  on  the  levee.  In  our  camp,  great  efforts  were 
making  to  complete  the  platforms  of  the  batteries, 
strengthen  the  parapet,  arrange  the  tents  in  proper 
order,  and  prolong  the  lines  into  the  wood.  The  re 
ports  of  deserters  stated,  that  the  enemy  expected 
shortly  to  receive  considerable  re -enforcements,  and 
was  bringing  up  heavy  artillery  to  batter  our  breast 
works. 


HISTORICAL    MEMOIR.  131 

On  the  31st,  the  enemy,  who  had  already  mount 
ed  a  few  guns  on  the  redoubt  erecting  in  front  of 
our  left,  fired  on  our  advanced-posts,  which  had  some 
skirmishes  with  those  of  the  enemy.  The  cannona 
ding  continued  on  both  sides  until  two  in  the  after- 
noon.  The  Louisiana  supported  our  batteries  with 
her  fire,  and  contributed  not  a  little  to  make  the  ene 
my  take  refuge  behind  some  buildings.  One  of  his 
officers  of  engineers,  having  advanced  to  reconnoitre 
our  forces  and  our  lines,  was  killed  by  the  advanced- 
posts. 

All  these  movements  and  reconnoitrings  on  the 
part  of  the  enemy  indicated  an  approaching  attack, 
Meanwhile  we  learned  the  capture  of  a  schooner  with 
an  officer  and  five  men,  made  by  our  troops  in  the 
lake,  near  Chef-Menteur.  That  schooner  served  to 
transport  provisions  from  the  enemy's  encampment 
on  Pearl  river,  to  his  troops  encamped  on  the  bank 
of  the  Mississippi.  In  the  night  from  the  31st  De 
cember  to  the  1st  of  January,  the  enemy  erected  two 
batteries  at  the  distance  of  about  six  hundred  yards 
from  our  lines,  on  a  ditch  running  along  the  side  of 
Chalmette's  plantation,  the  first  being  placed  in  advance 
of  the  buildings  of  the  plantation,  and  at  the  distance 
of  three  hundred  and  fifty  yards  from  the  bank  of  the 
river;  and  the  second  about  three  hundred  yards  far 
ther.  During  the  whole  night  was  heard  the  noise 
of  the  men  working  at  the  platforms  and  mounting 
the  pieces  of  cannon. 


132  yiSTOKlCAL   MEMOIR. 

FIRST  OF  JANUARY,  1815. 

The  1st  of  January  was  ushered  in  with  a  very 
thick  fog,  which  did  not  begin  to  disperse  until  to 
wards  8  o'clock.  As  soon  as  the  horizon  began  to 
clear  up,  the  enemy  opened  a  very  brisk  fire  from  his 
three  batteries,  of  which  the  left,  established1  on  the 
road,  mounted  two  twelve-pounders;  the  centre,  eight 
eighteen-pounders,  and  twenty-four-pound  carron- 
ades,  and  that  on  the  right  towards  the  wood  opposite 
our  lines,  mounted  eight  pieces  of  cannon  and  carron- 
ades.  A  cloud  of  Congreve  rockets  accompanied 
the  balls,  and  for  fifteen  minutes  the  fire  was  kept  up 
with  unexampled  celerity.  The  first  discharges  of 
the  two  batteries  nearest  the  river,  wrere  principally 
directed  against  Macarty's  house,  where  the  head 
quarters  were  established.  In  less  than  ten  minutes, 
upwards  of  one  hundred  balls,  rockets  and  shells 
struck  the  house,  and  rendered  it  impossible  to  re 
main  there.  The  general- in- chief  and  all  his  staff 
were  in  the  apartments  when  the  firing  began;  but 
though  bricks,  splinters  of  wood  and  furniture,  rockets 
and  balls,  were  flying  in  all  directions,  not  a  single 
person  was  wounded.  This  fierce  attack  of  the  ene 
my's  artillery,  was  answered  by  ours  with  a  brisk,' 
steady  and  well-directed  fire,  which  in  less  than  an 
hour  made  his  slacken  in  a  very  perceptible  degree. 
The  cannonading  however  still  continued  to  be  kept 
up,  vigorously  on  the  part  of  the  enemy,  but  with 
more  precision  and  more  effect  on  ours. 

The  enemy's  object  was  to  silence  our  artillery 
and  make  a  breach  in  the  breastwork  of  our  lines, 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  135 

with  a  view  to  push  on  to  the  assault.  For  this  pur 
pose  the  troops  were  in  readiness,  drawn  up  in  seve 
ral  parallel  lines;  but  prudently  waiting  in  the  back 
ditches,  and  in  the  intervals  between  the  batteries, 
for  the  favourable  moment  to  advance  to  the  attack  of 
our  lines.  But  on  this  occasion,  as  on  the  28th  of 
December,  his  expectations  were  frustrated;  and  in 
stead  of  intimidating  us  by  his  artillery,  he  soon 
perceived  the  superiority  of  ours. 

Yet  every  advantage  was  on  the  side  of  the  ene 
my;  his  batteries  presented  but  a  narrow  front,  and 
very  little  elevation,  on  a  spacious  plain,  the  soil  of 
which  was  from  four  to  six  feet  below  the  level  of  our 
platforms;  his  gunners  had  for  a  target  a  line  about 
one  thousand  yards  long,  the  top  of  whose  parapet 
was  eight  or  nine  feet  higher  than  his  platforms — 
whilst  our  batteries  might  be  said  to  have  only  points 
to  aim  at,  and  our  balls  could  not  rebound  on  so  soft 
a  soil.  Our  batteries  were  the  principal  object 
against  which  the  enemy's  fire  was  directed;  but  we 
were  not  less  intent  on  demolishing  his;  for  in  about 
an  hour's  time,  our  balls  dismounted  several  of  his 
guns;  and  when  the  firing  ceased  the  greater  part  oi 
his  artillery  was  unfit  for  service.  Justice  obliges  us 
to  acknowledge  that  the  fire  of  the  British  was  for  a 
long  time  vigorously  kept  up  and  well  directed.  We 
liad  the  carriage  of  a  twenty-four-pounder  broken  by 
one  of  their  balls,  at  captain  Dominique's  battery, 
and  that  of  the  thirty- two-pounder,  commanded  by 
lieutenant  Crawley  of  the  navy,  was  also  damaged  by 
a  ball;  the  fore-train  of  the  twelve-pounder  of  general 
Garrigues  was  likewise  broken  by  the  balls  of  the 


134  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

enemy.  The  cheeks  of  the  embrasures  of  our  batte 
ries  were  formed  of  bales  of  cotton,  which  the  ene 
my's  balls  struck  and  made  fly  in  all  directions;  the 
rockets  blew  up  two  artillery  caissons,  in  one  of 
which  were  a  hundred  rounds.  When  the  enemy 
perceived  this  accident,  he  suspended  his  fire  for 
some  seconds,  and  the  troops  ranged  in  the  ditches, 
with  those  at  the  batteries,  gave  three  sheers,  which 
were  instantly  answered  by  a  general  discharge  of  all 
the  artillery  of  our  lines.  From  that  moment  the 
enemy's  fire  began  to  slacken  in  a  very  perceptible 
degree,  owing  probably  to  his  being  convinced  of  the 
inutility  of  his  attempt,  and  to  the  great  number  of 
his  guns  which  our  artillery  had  dismounted. 
About  ten  o'clock  the  enemy  ordered  some  platoons 
of  sharp-shooters  to  penetrate  into  the  woods  on  the 
left  of  our  line,  with  a  view  to  ascertain  whether  it 
could  be  turned;  but  he  soon  perceived,  from  the 
brisk  fire  of  our  musketry,  that  on  the  left  we  were 
as  well  prepared  to  receive  him  as  on  the  right.  Part 
of  general  Coffee's  brigade  stationed  in  the  fosse,  two 
hundred  yards  behind  the  line,  received  orders  to 
move  forward  towards  the  wood,  in  order  to  support, 
if  necessary,  the  troops  stationed  immediately  on  the 
line;  but  Wellington's  heroes  discovered  that  they 
were  ill  qualified  to  contend  with  us  in  woods,  where 
they  must  fight  knee  deep  in  water  and  mud,  and 
that  the  various  kinds  of  laurel  which  abound  in 
Louisiana,  in  the  cypress  swamps  and  prairies,  were 
not  intended  to  grace  their  brows.  Yet  of  these  lau 
rels  there  never  was  a  fairer  opportunity  of  making 
an  ample  provision;  and  the  species  called  by  bota- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  135 

nists  the  laurel  of  conquerors,  is  found  at  every  step 
in  the  woods  and  prairies  of  Louisiana.  But  on  the 
other  hand,  cypress  trees  are  still  more  common;  the 
country  presenting  one  continued  forest  of  them  on 
each  bank  of  the  river,  for  upwards  of  one  hundred 
leagues  in  length;  and  such  of  the  British  troops  as 
lived  to  return  home,  must  have  made  known  in  En 
gland  how  provident  nature  has  been  in  accumula 
ting,  as  it  were,  on  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi,  the 
emblem  of  the  disasters  which  will  ever  attend  the 
invaders  of  that  country. 

The  fire  continued  to  slacken  until  noon,  and  at 
one  o'clock  the  enemy's  two  batteries  towards  the 
fight  Were  abandoned.  That  on  the  road  still  conti 
nued  to  throw  a  few  balls  and  rockets  until  three  in 
the  afternoon,  by  which  time  they  were  all  silenced, 
His  troops  at  last  retired  to  their  camp,  persuaded 
that  it  was  not  practicable  to  make  the  assault,  after 
having  continued  in  the  ditches  from  early  in  the 
morning.  Our  loss  of  men  that  day  was  very  incon 
siderable,  in  comparison  with  that  of  the  enemy,  and 
considering  the  long  continuance  of  an  intense  fire; 
for  it  amounted  to  no  more  than  thirty-four  wounded 
or  killed,  eleven  of  the  latter  being  persons  going  to 
or  returning  from  camp,  who  were  killed  on  the  road 
behind  the  lines,  by  the  enemy's  shells  or  balls  which 
were  shot  over  the  breastwork.  About  two  hun 
dred  yards  behind  the  line,  on  the  river,  near  the 
bank,  lay  a  boat  laden  with  military  stores,  which  was 
struck  by  several  of  the  enemy's  balls,  and  was  on 
the  point  of  sinking,  when  we  succeeded  in  saving 
the  greater  part  of  the  stores. 


136  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

The  batteries  that  the  enemy  had  on  the  river  in 
front  of  Chalrnette's  and  Bienvenu's  houses,  continu 
ed  likewise  the  whole  day  to  exchange  shots  with 
those  of  commodore  Patterson;  and  although  the  balls 
went  through  the  breastwork,  and  the  shells  fell  in 
great  numbers  in  the  batteries  and  on  the  road,  the 
commodore  lost  not  a  single  man,  nor  was  his  fire  for 
a  moment  less  intense  than  that  of  the  enemy.  It  is 
presumable  that  in  establishing  batteries  on  the  river, 
the  enemy's  object  was  not  to  command  the  passage 
of  it,  or  to  do  any  mischief  on  the  other  bank;  but 
merely  to  destroy  the  Louisiana:  and  indeed  several 
deserters  reported  that  for  that  purpose  he  constantly 
kept  red-hot  balls  ready  to  fire  on  her  the  moment 
she  came  within  the  range  of  his  guns. — (See  com 
modore  Patterson's  letter  to  the  Secretary  of  the  Na 
vy,  Appendix  No.  28.) 

Major-general  Thomas,  commanding  the  second 
division  of  Louisiana  militia,  arrived  the  same  day 
with  five  hundred  men  from  Baton  Rouge,  and  en 
camped  on  Ekipre's  plantation.  During  the  remain 
der  of  the  day,  the  enemy  was  busily  employed  in 
working  on  the  square  redoubt  he  had  begun,  facing 
our  left,  nor  did  our  heavy  pieces  of  artillery  one  mo 
ment  cease  firing  on  his  working  parties,  and  they  al 
ways  fired  with  success.  The  officer  commanding 
those  parties  stood  upon  the  parapet,  and  as  soon  as 
he  perceived  the  fire  of  our  guns,  he  gave  a  signal  to 
his  men-,  who  instantly  stooped  down  behind  the  pa 
rapet. 

The  redoubt  which  stood  on  Bienvenu's  planta 
tion  towards  the  wood,  was  of  a  quadrilateral  form, 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  137 

Ats  interior  dimensions  being  eighty,  sixty-two,  one 
hundred  and  eight,  and  seventy  feet.  Two  embra 
sures  were  made  on  the  small  front  opposite  our  lines, 
but  forming  an  angle  with  them.  Each  of  the  late 
ral  fronts  had  likewise  an  embrasure  in  the  middle, 
and  that  on  the  back  had  an  opening  twelve  feet  wide, 
serving  as  an  entrance^  and  covered  by  a  traverse 
within  the  fort.  Along  the  intervals  between  the  em 
brasures  above  the  ground,  ran  banquettes  raised 
three  feet,  for  the  musketry. 

The  parapet,  which  was  fourteen  feet  thick  at  the 
base,  and  nine  at  the  summit,  had  battlements  for  the 
musketry  on  three  aspects;  a  fosse  from  twelve  to 
fifteen  feet  wide  and  three  deep  surrounded  the  re 
doubt.  That  work  had  probably  been  made  by  the 
enemy  in  apprehension  of  an  attack  by  the  wood, 
with  a  view  to  protect  the  pickets  posted  on  that  side. 
Some  days  after,  the  enemy  established  another  re 
doubt  in  advance  of  this,  towards  our  lines,  on  the 
ditch  separating  the  plantations  of  Bienvenu  and 
Chalmette.  This  latter  redoubt  was  smaller  in  its  di 
mansions,  and  had  an  embrasure  in  each  of  the  angles 
towards  our  lines.  In  erecting  this  redoubt,  the  ene 
my  experienced  the  greatest  difficulty,  being  con 
stantly  galled  by  our  artillery,  which  mowed  down 
the  working  parties.  He  again  called  in  his  out 
posts  on  the  1st  of  January,  as  he  had  done  after 
the  affair  of  the  28th  of  December.  On  all  that  space 
from  Chalmette's  old  plantation  in  the  direction  of  the 
furthest  redoubt,  there  were  no  troops  to  be  seen  ex 
cept  near  the  river.  The  batteries  had  been  dis^ 
mantled  during  the  night,  and  with  mueh  difficulty 


138  HISTORICAL.MEMOIR. 

their  guns  were  removed,  by  being  dragged  through 
the  mud. 

On  the  2d,  early  in  the  morning,  several  parties 
went  out  to  view  the  enemy's  batteries,  where  they 
found  some  barrels  of  powder,  a  large  quantity  of 
cannon  balls  and  implements  of  artillery,  with  broken 
gun-carriages  belonging  to  the  navy,  and  carronades 
which  our  balls  had  shattered. 

General  John  Adair  arrived  at  head-quarters,  and 
announced  the  speedy  arrival  of  the  Kentucky  militia, 
whom  he  had  left  the  day  before  at  Lafourche. 

General  Jackson,  being  desirous  of  ascertaining 
whether  the  enemy,  by  ascending  the  bayou  Bien- 
venu,  above  the  Piernas  canal,  could  possibly  pene 
trate  either  towards  Chef-Menteur  or  towards  the 
bank  of  the  river,  ordered  colonel  Reuben  Kemper, 
a  volunteer  in  the  Feliciana  troops,  to  go  down  with 
a  detachment  along  Dupre's  canal,  cross  the  cypress 
swamps  and  prairies  of  the  basin  of  Gentilly,  and 
penetrate  to  the  post  of  Bertonniere,  on  the  Chef- 
Menteur  road;  which  orders  colonel  Kemper  exe 
cuted,  not  without  encountering  numerous  difficul 
ties.  The  impossibility  of  the  enemy's  penetrating 
by  that  way,  was  thus  fully  ascertained,  and  all  unea 
siness  on  that  score  removed. 

During  the  night  of  the  3d  of  January,  word  was 
brought  to  general  Jackson  that  the  enemy  had  as 
cended  bayou  Bienvenu  as  far  as  the  forks  of  the 
Piernas  canal,  where  he  had  landed  in  considerable 
force.  This  movement  indicated  a  design  to  inter- 
cept  us  in  the  rear.  The  general  instantly  ordered 
major  Davis,  assistant  inspector- general,  to  take  with 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  139 

him  two  hundred  men  of  general  Coffee's  brigade, 
and  proceed  to  ascertain  whether  the  report  were  true; 
and  in  case  of  the  enemy's  having  really  landed,  to 
push  on,  and  drive  him  into  the  bayou.  Major  Davis 
lost  no  time  in  executing  these  orders,  and  notwith 
standing  a  heavy  rain,  and  the  badness  of  the  road,  in 
which  the  men  sunk  up  to  the  knee  in  mud,  the  de 
tachment  reached  the  point  indicated,  where  they 
did  not  find  a  single  British  soldier. 

General  Jackson,  anxious  to  know  whether  there 
existed  any  possibility  of  the  enemy's  penetrating  on 
that  side,  ordered  colonel  Kemper  to  choose  out 
twenty  volunteers  from  the  different  corps  on  the  lines, 
and  with  them  to  descend  the  Piernas  canal,  as  far  as 
its  junction  with  bayou  Bienvenu,  and  this  latter  as 
far  as  its  junction  with  bayou  Mazant,  if  possible, 
and  there  reconnoitre  the  enemy's  position.  Owing 
to  the  difficulty  of  procuring  boats,  colonel  Kemper 
was  forced  to  undertake  this  service  with  only  eleven 
men,  whom  he  led  that  evening  to  the  prairie,  where 
they  passed  the  night.  Early  next  morning  they 
proceeded  on  their  way  down  the  bayou,  occasionally 
climbing  up  the  trees  on  the  bank,  to  see  whether 
they  could  thence  discover  the  enemy.  At  last  they 
arrived  sufficiently  near  the  junction  of  the  two  ba 
yous  to  perceive  the  fortified  enclosure  the  enemy  had 
there  formed.  Colonel  Kemper,  leaving  the  boats 
with  some  men  to  guard  them,  endeavoured  to  ap 
proach  and  reconnoitre  the  enemy  from  the  prairie; 
but  soon  met  with  the  obstruction  of  a  bayou, 
which  obliged  him  to  return;  when  he  was  about,  half 
a  mile  from  the  point  where  he  had  left  his  boats»  he 


140  HISTORICAL  MEMOfJl. 

perceived  the  enemy  ascending  the  bayou  in  five 
small  vessels,  and  distinctly  saw  sailors  looking  out 
from  the  mast  head.  When  those  vessels  got  near 
our  boats,  they  fired  two  musket-shots  on  those  who 
were  left  to  guard  them;  on  which  four  of  them  ran 
and  escaped,  and  one  was  taken  prisoner.  The  ene 
my  proceeded  up  the  bayou,  setting  fire  to  the  prairie 
as  he  advanced,  so  that  whoever  happened  to  be  in  it, 
had  to  run  from  the  flames  rapidly  gaining  on  the  grass, 
which,  as  we  have  already  seen,  is  of  considerable 
height,  and  as  thick  as  wheat  in  a  field.  At  length,  af 
ter  great  fatigues,  the  colonel,  and  part  of  his  detach 
ment,  arrived  in  camp  next  day  by  nine  o'clock;  the 
others,  who,  having  escaped  from  the  boats,  took  an 
other  road,  had  reached  camp  th*  preceding  day  to 
wards  evening. 

This,  reconnoitring  discovered  to  us  the  enemy's 
position  in  the  bayous,  and  on  their  banks.  It  was 
ascertained  that  at  the  forks  of  Villere's  canal,  and 
bayou  Mazant,  where  he  effected  his  landing,  he  had 
thrown  up  a  breastwork,  within  which  he  had  built 
magazines  for  stores,  which  were  guarded  by  a  strong 
detachment;  he  had  also  an  advanced  sentinel  con 
stantly  posted  in  a  tree,  which  commanded  a  view  of 
the  whole  prairie  and  of  the  bayous. 

The  precaution  the  enemy  had  taken  to  set  fire 
to  the  prairie  on  the  banks  of  bayou  Bienvenu,  leaves 
no  room  to  doubt  of  his  having  apprehended  an  at 
tack  on  that  side.  Had  we  indeed  been  stronger  in 
troops,  and  better  supplied  with  boats,  we  might,  du 
ring  the  night,  have  descended  bayou  Bienvenu,  as 
far  as  its  junction  with  bayou  Mazant,  and  thence 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  141 

reascending  the  latter,  have  surprised,  or  at  least  at 
tacked  their  post  at  the  mouth  of  Villere's  canal. 

On  the  4th  of  January  the  drafted  militia  from 
Kentucky,  to  the  number  of  two  thousand  two  hun 
dred  and  fifty,  arrived  in  town,  and  went  to  encamp 
on  Prevost's  plantation.  On  the  following  day  seven 
hundred  and  fifty  of  them,  but  only  five  hundred  and 
fifty  being  armed,  repaired  to  the  lines,  and  encamp 
ed  at  some  distance  in  the  rear.  All  these  troops  were 
under  the  command  of  major-general  John  Thomas, 
and  brigadier- general  John  Adair,  acting  adjutant- 
general,  took  the  command  of  the  troops  detached  to 
the  lines.* 

*  The  deplorable  condition  of  a  great  number  of  militia 
men  of  this  and  the  adjacent  states,  who  were  in  want  of  cloth 
ing,  in  an  inclement  season,  and  obliged  by  the  nature  of  the 
service  to  be  constantly  exposed  in  the  open  air,  excited  the  sen 
sibility  of  the  citizens.  Mr.  Louaillier,  the  elder,  a  member  of 
the  house  of  representatives,  obtained  from  the  legislature  the 
sum  of  six  thousand  dollars,  which  was  put  at  the  disposition  of 
a  committee  formed  for  their  relief.  Subscriptions  were  alse 
opened  at  New  Orleans,  for  the  same  purpose,  and  ano 
ther  sum  of  six  thousand  dollars  was  soori  subscribed;  and 
it  is  to  be  observed  that  the  Orleans  volunteers  and  militia, 
not  satisfied  with  discharging  their  duty  to  their  country,  by 
their  presence  in  the  camp,  sent  for  a  subscription  list,  and 
filled  it  with  their  signatures.  The  county  of  the  German 
coast  subscribed  about  three  thousand  six  hundred  and  that 
of  Attakapas  remitted  to  the  committee  five  hundred  dol 
lars.  The  whole  sum  thus  obtained,  including  what  was  voted 
by  the  legislature,  amounted  to  sixteen  thousand  one  hundred 
dollars,  and  was  laid  out  in  purchasing  blankets  and  woollens, 
which  were  distributed  among  the  ladies  of  New  Orleans,  to  be 
made  into  clothes.  Within  one  week  twelve  hundred  blanket 
cloaks,  two  hundred  and  seventy-five  waistcoats,  eleven  hundred 


142  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

In  a  letter  of  the  3d  of  January  to  the  secretary 
of  war,  the  general  complains  that  the  arms  sent  from 
Pittsburgh  are  not  yet  arrived,  expressing  his  appre 
hensions  as  to  the  consequences  with  which  this  de 
lay  may  be  attended,  and  the  effect  these  may  have 
with  regard  to  the  issue  of  the  war  in  this  country. 
"  Hardly,"  says  he,  "  one  third  of  the  Kentucky 
troops,  so  long  expected,  are  armed,  and  the  arms 
they  have  are  not  fit  for  use."  Justly  does  the  general 

and  twenty-seven  pairs  of  pantaloons,  eight  hundred  shirts,  four 
hundred  and  ten  pairs  of  shoes,  and  a  great  number  of  mattresses, 
were  made  up,  or  purchased  ready  made,  and  distributed  among 
our  brethren  in  arms,  who  stood  in  the  greatest  need  of  them. 
Though  the  gratitude  of  their  fellow  citizens,  and  the  conscious 
ness  of  their  patriotic  service,  be,  to  Mr.  Louaillier,  and  to 
Messrs.  Dubuys  and  Soulie,  who  co-operated  with  him  in  his 
honourable  exertions,  a  sufficient  reward,  yet  I  must  be  allowed 
to  pay  those  gentlemen  the  tribute  of  applause  so  justly  due  to 
them. 

In  the  course  of  the  campaign  several  fathers,  or  men  who 
were  the  support  of  families,  among  the  volunteers  and  militia 
of  the  state,  having  been  killed  or  wounded,  those  who  depend 
ed  on  them  for  support  were  left  in  the  greatest  distress;  where 
fore  the  legislature,  on  the  6th  of  February,  enacted  that  the 
pay  of  wounded  men  should  be  continued  till  the  end  of  next  ses 
sion,  and  that  the  families  of  those  slain  in  the  service  of  the 
country,  should  receive  pay  for  the  deceased,  until  the  same  pe 
riod.  With  pleasure  I  take  this  opportunity  to  do  justice  to 
the  patriotic  and  highly  praiseworthy  conduct  of  the  legislature, 
not  only  on  this  occasion,  but  during  the  whole  session.  The 
sole  reproach  that  attaches  to  them,  is  their  having,  early  in  the 
session,  spent,  in  unimportant  discussions  relative  to  elections, 
much  more  time  than  was  consistent  with  a  due  regard  to  the 
exigencies  of  the  critical  circumstances  in  which  we  then  were. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  143 

complain  of  the  conduct  of  the  agents  of  government, 
and  presages  that  the  defeat  of  our  armies,  and  the 
dishonour  not  only  of  the  officers  commanding  them, 
but  of  the  nation,  must  inevitably  be  the  consequence 
of  so  defective  an  administration.  The  general  con 
cludes  by  informing  the  secretary  of  war,  that  the 
enemy  appears  intent  on  fortifying  his  position;  that 
it  is  doubtful  whether  he  will  renew  his  attacks,  or 
change  the  seat  of  war;  that  in  either  case  he  has 
made  the  best  disposition  of  the  troops  he  commands 
(much  inferior  in  number  to  those  of  the  enemy)  to 
act  as  cir  cum  stances  may  require. 

Our  artillery  continued,  in  the  meantime,  to  fire 
on  the  enemy,  and  whenever  a  group  of  four  or  five 
men  showed  themselves,  they  were  instantly  dispers 
ed  by  our  balls  or  shells.  The  advantage  we  derived 
from  that  almost  incessant  cannonading  on  both  banks 
of  the  Mississippi,  was  that  we  exercised  our  gun 
ners,  annoyed  the  enemy  to  such  a  degree  that  he 
could  not  work  at  any  fortification,  nor,  indeed,  come 
within  the  reach  of  our  cannon  by  day,  and  was  de 
prived  of  all  repose  during  the  night. 

From  the  report  of  some  deserters,  we  learned 
that  a  re- enforcement  of  troops,  under  the  command 
of  major-general  Lambert,  had  lately  arrived  in  the 
British  camp,  and  that  the  enemy  intended  shortly  to 
make  a  general  attack.  For  some  days  past,  the  com 
munication  between  the  fleet  and  bayou  Bienvenu 
had  been  unusually  active. 

The  2d  regiment  of  Louisiana  militia  was  order 
ed  to  cross  the  river,  to  re-enforce  general  Morgan's 


144  HJSTORieAL  MEMOIR, 

camp.  At  the  confluence  of  the  Piernas  canal  and 
bayou  Bienvenu,  was  established  a  post  of  cavalry, 
consisting  of  a  detachment  of  captain  Ogden's  com 
pany  of  dragoons. 

On  the  6th  of  January,  sailing-master  Johnson 
left  Chef-Menteur  with  three  boats  under  his  com 
mand,  and  succeeded  in  burning  a  British  brig  load 
ed  with  rum  and  biscuit,  on  her  way  to  the  fleet  at 
bayou  Bienvenu.  On  this  occasion  we  took  ten 
prisoners,  atnd  from  them  we  learned  that  the  enemy 
was  digging  out  Villere's  canal,  and  extending  it,  in 
order  to  get  his  boats  into  the  river. 

On  the  6th  and  7th  an  unusual  stir  and  bus 
tle  appeared  to  prevail  amongst  the  enemy.  Both 
banks  of  Villere's  canal  were  covered  with  soldiers 
and  sailors,  who  seemed  to  be  employed  in  dragging 
boats;  troops  were  frequently  observed  exercising  or 
reviewing,  and  every  thing  announced  an  approach 
ing  attack.  Commodore  Patterson  had  gone  down 
on  the  right  bank,  to  the  point  opposite  the  mouth  of 
the  canal,  where  he  ascertained  the  movements  of  die 
enemy. 

In  the  morning  of  the  6th  'we  began  to  establish  a 
small  redoubt  for  two  six -pounders,  on  that  part  of 
the  bank  of  the  river  which  joined  the  extremity  of 
the  right  of  our  line,  from  which  it  was  separated  by 
the  ditch,  which  in  that  part  was  very  shallow,  and 
without  any  water.     This  redoubt  had  two  embra 
sures,  which  commanded  the  road  and  the  river  bank, 
and  another  which  flanked  the  front  of  the  line.     A 
shallow  fosse,  which  was  also  without  water,  in  con 
sequence  of  the  river's  having  fallen,  surrounded  the 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  145 

redoubt,  which  was  not  yet  completed  on  the  morn 
ing  of  the  8th. 

Before  I  proceed  to  relate  the  events  of  the  8th  of 
January,  a  day  of  ever- glorious  memory  in  the  annals 
of  America,  and  especially  in  those  of  Louisiana,  I 
think  it  not  unseasonable  here  to  describe  those  lines, 
before  which  was  performed  the  most  important  mi 
litary  exploit  of  the  whole  war,  and,  considering  local 
circumstances  and  the  respective  forces  contending, 
that  which  reflects  on  America  the  highest  glory. 

Jackson's  lines,  within  five  miles  of  the  city  of 
New  Orleans,  and  running  along  the  limits  of  Rod 
riguez's  andChalmette's  plantations,  formerly  the  pro 
perty  of  the  United  States,  were  but  one  of  those  an 
cient  mill-races,  so  common  in  Louisiana,  extending 
from  the  bank  ot  the  river  to  the  Cypress  swamp.  It 
has  been  already  seen,  from  my  description  of  the 
form  of  the  soil  in  Lower  Louisiana,  and  from  its 
shelving  from  the  river  towards  the  swamps,  that 
when  the  Mississippi  is  swelled  to  its  greatest  height^ 
the  level  of  the  surface  of  its  waters  is  some  feet  above 
that  of  the  contiguous  soil,  and  from  twelve  to  fifteen 
above  that  of  the  prairies  and  bayous,  which  at  those 
periods  receive  the  waters  flowing  from  the  Missis 
sippi.  To  add  to  the  mass  and  the  force  of  the  wa 
ter,  the  planters  dig  canals  a  few  feet  deep,  throwing 
the  earth  on  both  sides,  so  as  to  afford  a  mass  of  wa 
ter  from  eight  to  eleven  feet  deep;  and  a,t  the  head  of 
these  canals,  which  are  commonly  twenty-five  feet 
wide,  are  constructed  saw- mills.  The  canal  on  which 
Jackson's  lines  were  formed,  had  long  been  aban- 
dpned,  having  no  longer  any  mill  to. turn,  so  that  its 


. 
**^  f\f  ~~ 


146  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

banks  had  fallen  in  and  raised  its  bottom,  which  was 
covered  with  grass,  presenting  rather  the  appearance 
of  an  old  draining  ditch  than  of  a  canal.  On  the  24th 
of  December,  general  Jackson  had  taken  this  posi 
tion;  and  that  it  was  well  chosen,  will  sufficiently  ap 
pear  on  an  inspection  of  the  map— (Plate  No.  5.)  I 
will  only  observe,  that  thojie  lines  leave  the  least  pos 
sible  space  between  the  river  and  the  w.ood,  and  that 
from  the  lines  to  Villere's  canal,  the  depth  of  the 
high-land  continually  increases,  and  is  at  Laronde's 
plantation  nearly  three  times  as  great  as -at  the  lines. 
As^  soon  as  this  position  was  choseiv*the  troops  be 
gan  to  raise  a  parapet,  leaving  the  ditch  as  it  was, 
except  that  by  cutting  the  road  it  was  laid  under 
water,  as  there  was  then  a^  temporary  rise  of  the  river. 
Earth  was  fetched  from  the  rear  of  the  line  and 
thrown  carelessly  on  the  left  bank,  where  the  earth 
had  been  thrown  when  the  »canal  was  originally  dug. 
The  bank  on  the  right  side  being  but  little  elevated 
above  the  soil,  formed  a  kind  of  glacis.  All  the  pales 
of  the  fences  in  the  vicinity  were  taken  to  line  the 
parapet,  and  prevent  the  earth  from  falling  into  the  ca 
nal.  All  this  was  done  at  various  intervals,  and  by 
different  corps,  owing  to  the  frequent  mutations  in 
the  disposition  of  the  troops.  This  circumstance, 
added  to  the  cold  and  to  incessant  rain,  rendered  it 
impossible  to  observe  any  regularity  as  to  the  thick 
ness  and  height  of  the  parapet,  which  in  some  places 
was  as  much  as  twenty  feet  thick  at  the  top,  though 
hardly  five  feet  high;  whilst  in  other  places  the  ene 
my's  balls  went  through  it  at  the  base.  On  the  1st 
of  January  there  was  but  a  very  small  proportion  of 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIlt.         x  147 

thejine"able  to  withstand  the  b^Us;  but  on  the  8th  of 
January  the  whole  extent,  as. far  as  the  wood*  was 
proof  against  the  enemy's  cannon.  The  length  of  the 
lines  was  eight  hundred  and  fifteen  toises,  or  about  a 
mile,  somewhat  more  than  half  of  which  ran  from  the 
river  to  the  wood,  the  remainder  extending  into  the 
depth,  where  the  line  took  a  direction  towards  the 
left,  which  rested  on  a  cypress  swamp  almost  impass 
able.     On  that  part  of  the  line  which  was  in  the 
wood,  the  breastwork  was  not  thicker  than  was  ne 
cessary  to  resist  musketry;  it  was  formed  of  a  double 
row  of  logs,  laid  one  over  the  other,  leaving  a  space 
of  two  feet,  which  was  filled  up  with  earth.     Along 
one  part  of  the  line  ran  a  banquette;  in  some  parts, 
the   height  of  the  breastwork  above  the  soil  was 
hardly  sufficient  to  cover  the  men.  The  earth  thrown 
up  to  form  the  breastwork,  had  been  dug  out  at  va 
rious   intervals,  and  without  any  order,  the   rainy 
weather  not  admitting  of  the  work's  being  carried  on 
with  regularity,  as  observed  before. 

The  artillery  was  distributed  on  the  lines  in  the 
following  manner.  On  the  soil  of  the  road  within 
the  levee  was  battery  No.  1,  commanded  by  captain 
Humphreys,  of  the  U.  S.  artillery.  It  consisted  of 
two  brass  twelve-pounders,  and  a  six-inch  howitzer, 
on  field  carriages;  these  pieces  enfiladed  the  road  to 
wards  that  side  where  the  enemy  was  posted,  and  their 
fire  grazed  the  parapet  of  the  flank  of  the  redoubt, 
towards  the  right.  Battery  No.  1,  was  seventy  feet 
from  the  bank  of  the  river.  The  two  twelve-pound 
ers  were  served  by  soldiers  belonging  to  the  regular 
artillery,  and  the  howitzer  by  dragoons  of  major  St, 
Geme's  company . 


148  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

Battery  No.  2,  which  had  a  twenty-four-pounde/ , 
was  commanded  by  lieutenant  Norris,  of  the  navy, 
and  served  by  part  of  the  crew  of  the  late  schooner 
Carolina;  its  distance  from  No.  1  was  ninety  yards. 
This  battery  was  the  most  elevated  above  the  soil. 

Battery  No.  3,  commanded  by  captains  Domi 
nique  and  Bluche,  commanders  of  privateers,  had  two 
twenty-four-pounders,  which  were  served  by  French 
mariners;  its  distance  from  No.  2  was  fifty  yards. 

Battery  No.  4,  commanded  by  lieutenant  Craw- 
ley,  of  the  navy,  and  served  by  part  of  the  crew  of  the 
Carolina,  had  a  thirty-two-pounder;  its  distance  from 
No.  3  was  twenty  yards. 

Battery  No.  5,  commanded  by  colonel  Perry  and 
lieutenant  Kerr,  of  the  artillery,  had  two  six-pound 
ers;  its  distance  from  No.  4  was  one  hundred  and 
ninety  yards. 

Battery  No.  6,  commanded  by  general  Garrigues 
Flaujeac,  and  served  by  a  detachment  of  the  compa 
ny  of  Francs,  under  the  immediate  command  of  lieu 
tenant  Bertel,  had  a  brass  twelve-pounder;  its  distance 
from  No.  5  was  thirty-six  yards. 

Battery  No.  7  had  a  long  brass  eighteen-pound 
culverine,  and  a  six-pounder,  commanded  by  lieu 
tenants  Spotts  and  Chauveau,  and  served  by  gunners 
of  the  U.  S.  artillery;  its  distance  from  No.  6  was 
one  hundred  and  ninety  yards. 

The  8th  battery  had  a  small  brass  carronade, 
which  rendered  very  little  service,  on  account  of  the 
ill  condition  of  its  carriage;  it  was  commanded  by  a 
corporal  of  artillery,  and  served  by  militia  men  of  ge 
neral  Carroll's  command;  its  distance  from  No.  7  was 
sixty  yards. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  149 

Next  to  this  piece  the  line  formed  a,  receding 
elbow,  as  laid  down  in  the  draught  of  the  affair  of  the 
8th — (See  Atlas,  Plate  No.  7.) — enormous  holes  in 
the  soil  made  impassable  by  their  being  full  of  wa* 
ter  from  the  canal,  rendered  this  bend  in  the  line 
unavoidable. 

From  this  bend,  where  the  wood  began,  to  the 
extremity  of  the  line,  the  ground  was  so  low,  and  so 
difficult  to  be  drained,  that  the  troops  were  literally 
encamped  in  the  water,  walking  knee  deep  in  mud; 
and  the*several  tents  were  pitched  on  small  isles  or 
hillocks,  surrounded  with  water  or  mud,/ 

It  was  here  that  the  brave  troops  of  generals  Car 
roll  and  Coffee,  from  the  24th  of  December,  1814, 
and  part  of  those  of  Kentucky,  from  the  6th,  until  the 
20th  of  January,  1815,  gave  an  example  of  all  the 
military  virtues.  Though  constantly  living,  and  even 
sleeping,  in  the  mud,  those  worthy  sons  of  Columbia 
never  uttered  a  complaint,  uor  showed  the  lest  symp 
tom  of  discontent  or  impatience.  Those  who  have 
not  seen  the  ground,  cannot  form  an  idea  of  the  de 
plorable  condition  of  the  troops  encamped  on  the  left 
of  the  line.  But  it  was  necessary  to  guard  that  quar 
ter  against  the  attacks  of  the  enemy;  it  was  neces- 
sary  that  troops  should  be  stationed  there,  to  re 
pulse  him  on  the  edge  of  the  breastwork,  if,  under 
cover  of  the  bushes,  he  advanced  to  our  intrench- 
in  ents,  Those  brave  men  supported  all  their  hardships 
with  resignation,  and  even  with  alacrity.  The  safe 
ty  of  the  country  was  at  stake,  and  their  desire  to 
chastise  insolent  invaders,  operated  too  strongly  on 
hearts  inflamed  with  patriotic  ardour,  to  suffer  them 
to  perceive  the  imcomfortableness  of  their  situation. 


150  HISTORICAL    MEMOIR. 

Such  conduct  is  so  much  superior  to  any  eulogy  I 
could  bestow  on  it,  that  I  must  be  content  to  admke 
it  in  silence. 

In  order  to  give  a  correct  narrative  of  the  affair  of 
the  8th,  I  must  previously  make  the  reader  acquaint 
ed  with  the  respective  position  of  the  different  corps 
stationed  at  the  lines;  that  he  may  perceive,  that  if  a 
considerable  part  of  the  troops  exhibited  no  active  va 
lour,  it  was  owing  to  the  attack's  not  being  made  on 
their  position;  for  had  it  been  general,  there  can  be 
no  doubt  but  all  would  have  equally  vied  in  ardour 
and  bravery. 

The  redoubt  on  the  river,  in  front  of  the  extre 
mity  of  the  line  on  the  right,  was  guarded  by  a  com 
pany  of  the  7th  regiment,  commanded  by  lieutenant 
Ross.  The  artillery  was  served  by  a  detachment  of 
the  44th,  under  the  command  of  lieutenant  Marant. 
Within  the  line,  at  the  extremity  of  the  right,  be 
tween  battery  No.  1  and  the  river,  was  stationed  the 
New  Orleans  volunteer  company  of  riflemen,  about 
thirty  men  strong. 

The  7th  regiment  covered  from  that  battery  to 
battery  No.  3,  taking  in  the  powder-magazine,  built 
since  the  1st  of  January,  as  also  battery  No.  2,  com 
manded  by  lieutenant  Norris.  This  regiment,  four 
hundred  and  thirty  men  strong,  was  commanded  by 
major  Peire. 

The  interval  between  that  battery  and  No.  4,  com 
manded  by  lieutenant  Crawley,  was  occupied  by  ma 
jor  Plauche's  battalion  of  volunteer  uniform  compa 
nies,  and  by  major  Lacoste's  battalion  of  Louisiana 
men  of  colour.     The  former  was  two  hundred  and 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  151 

eighty-nine  men  strong,  and  the  latter  two  hundred 
and  eighty. 

From  battery  No.  4,  to  colonel  Perry's,  No.  5, 
the  line  was  defended  by  major  Daquin's  battalion  of 
St.  Domingo  men  of  colour,  one  hundred  and  fifty 
men  strong,  and  from  that  out  by  the  44th,  two  hun 
dred  and  forty  men  strong,  commanded  by  captain 
Baker.  All  the  corps,  from  the  7th  regiment  to 
the  44th  inclusively,  were  under  the  command  of 
colonel  Ross. 

Two-thirds  of  the  remaining  length  of  the  line, 
were  guarded  by  the  troops  commanded  by  major- 
general  Carroll.  On  the  right  of  battery  No.  7,  com 
manded  by  lieutenants  Spotts  and  Chauveau,were  sta 
tioned  fifty  marines,  under  the  command  of  lieutenant 
Bellevue. 

On  the  preceding  day,  part  of  the  Kentucky 
troops,  under  the  command  of  general  Adair,  had 
gone  to  re-enforce  that  part  of  the  line.  The  order 
in  which  they  were  ranged  may  be  seen  on  the  plan. 
All  those  troops  formed  a  force  of  about  sixteen 
hundred  men. 

The  troops  under  the  command  of  general  Coffee 
occupied  the  rest  of  the  length  of  the  line,  as  also  that 
part  which  turned  off  towards  the  left  into  the  wood; 
their  number  was  about  five  hundred  men. 

Captain  Ogden's  company  of  cavalry  was  station 
ed  behind  head -quarters,  and  a  detachment  of  the 
Attakapas  dragoons  was  posted  within  the  court-yard? 
together  about  fifty  men  strong. 

During  the  attack,  captain  Chauveau's  compauy 
of  horse  volunteers,  about  thirty  men  strong,  hasted 


152  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

from  town  and  drew  up  in  the  same  court-yard,  to  be 
ready  for  a  sortie,  should  it  be  thought  expedient. 

The  Mississippi  cavalry,  commanded  by  major 
Hinds,  one  hundred  and  fifty  men  strong,  was  en 
camped  in  the  rear,  on  Delery's  plantation.  Our  out 
posts  extended  about  five  hundred  yards  in  front  of 
the  line. 

Different  detachments,  making  an  aggregate  of 
two  hundred  and  fifty  men  of  colonel  Young's  regi 
ment  of  Louisiana  militia,  were  stationed  at  conve 
nient  intervals,  on  the  skirts  of  the  wood,  behind  the 
line,  as  far  as  the  Piernas  canal. 

Four  hundred  yards  behind  the  line,  a  guard  was 
posted  on  the  road,  to  prevent  any  one's  going  out  of 
camp;  and  a  line  of  sentinels  extended  from  that  post 
to  the  wood  for  the  same  purpose. 

Although  the  above  details  show  the  number  of 
our  troops  to  have  amounted  to  about  four  thousand 
men,  including  one  hundred  artillerists  who  did  not 
belong  to  any  corps,  it  is  nevertheless  true,  that  ge 
neral  Jackson's  line  was  defended  by  only  three  thou 
sand  two  hundred  men,  the  remaining  eight  hundred 
having  been  distributed  into  various  detachments, 
and  posted  behind  to  guard  the  camp,  for  the  defence 
of  the  Piernas  canal,  and  on  the  outskirts  of  the 
wood. — (See  Atlas,  plates  Nos.  5  and  7.) 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  153 


BATTLE  OF  THE  EIGHTH  OF  JANUARY, 

I  HAVE  mentioned  above,  that  on  the  6th  we  were 
informed  that  the  enemy  intended  shortly  to  attack 
our  lines;  every  thing,  indeed,  announced  such  a  de 
termination;  but  we  were  in  doubt  whether  the  attack 
on  the  left  bank  would  be  feigned  or  real,  or  whether 
the  enemy  would  not  direct  his  principal  force  against 
general  Morgan  on  the  right  bank.  But  in  the  after 
noon  of  the  7th  it  became  evident  that  the  enemy's 
design  was  to  attack  Jackson's  lines  and  attempt  to 
storm  them. 

Though  at  so  great  a  distance  we  could  not  dis 
tinctly  see  what  was  passing  in  the  enemy's  camp, 
'we  perceived  that  a  great  number  of  soldiers  and 
sailors  were  at  work,  endeavouring  to  move  some 
thing  very  unwieldy,  which  we  concluded  to  be  artil 
lery.  With  the  assistance  of  a  telescope  in  the  up 
per  apartment  of  head- quarters,  we  perceived  soldiers 
on  Laronde's  plantation,  busy  in  making  fascines, 
while  others  were  working  on  pieces  of  wood,  which 
we  concluded  must  be  scaling  ladders.  The  picket- 
guards  near  the  wood  had  moreover  been  increased 
and  stationed  nearer  each  other.  Officers  of  the  staff 
were  seen  riding  about  the  fields  of  Laronde's,  Bien- 
venu's  and  Chaimette's  plantations,  and  stopping  at 
the  different  posts  to  give  orders.  Finally,  on  the 
7th,  shortly  after  night-fall,  we  distinctly  heard  men 
at  work  in  the  enemy's  different  batteries;  the  strokes 
of  hammers  gave  "  note  of  preparation,"  and  re 
sounded  even  within  our  lines;  and  our  out-posts  in- 

x 


154  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

formed  us  that  the  enemy  was  re-establishing  his 
batteries:  his  guards  were  re-enforced  about  sunset, 
probably  with  a  view  to  cover  the  movements  of  the 
troops.  In  our  camp  all  was  composure;  the  officers 
were  ordered  to  direct  their  subalterns  to  be  ready 
on  the  first  signal.  Half  the  troops  passed  the  night 
behind  the  breastwork,  relieving  each  other  occasion 
ally.  Every  one  waited  for  day  with  anxiety  and 
impatience,  but  with  calm  intrepidity,  expecting  to 
be  vigorously  attacked,  and  knowing  that  the  enemy 
had  then  from  twelve  to  fifteen  thousand  bayonets  to 
bring  into  action,  besides  two  thousand  sailors  and 
some  marines. 

A  little  before  daybreak,  our  out-post  came  in 
without  noise,  having  perceived  the  enemy  moving 
forward  in  great  force. 

At  last  the  dawn  of  day  discovered  to  us  the  ene 
my  occupying  two-thirds  of  the  space  between  the 
wood  and  the  Mississippi.  Immediately  a  Congreve 
rocket  went  off' from  the  skirt  of  the  wood,  in  the  di 
rection  of  the  river.  This  was  the  signal  for  the  at 
tack.  At  the  same  instant,  the  twelve-pounder  of  bat 
tery  No.  6,  whose  gunners  had  perceived  the  enemy's 
movement,  discharged  a  shot.  On  this  all  his  troops 
gave  three  cheers,  formed  in  close  column  of  about 
sixty  men  in  front,  in  very  good  order,  and  advanced 
nearly  in  the  direction  of  battery  No.  7,  the  men 
shouldering  their  muskets,  and  all  carrying  fascines, 
and  some  with  ladders.  A  cloud  of  rockets  preceded 
them,  and  continued  to  fall  in  showers  during  the 
whole  attack.  Batteries  Nos.  6,  7  and  8,  now  open 
ed  an  incessant  fire  on  the  column,  which  continued 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  155 

to  advance  in  pretty  good  order,  until,  in  a  few  mi- 
mutes,  the  musketry  of  the  troops  of  Tennessee  and 
Kentucky,  joining  their  fire  with  that  of  the  artillery, 
began  to  make  an  impression  on  it,  which  soon  threw 
it  into  confusion.  It  was  at  that  moment  that  was 
heard  that  constant  rolling  fire,  whose  tremendous 
noise  resembled  rattling  peals  of  thunder.  For  some 
time  the  British  officers  succeeded  in  animating  the 
courage  of  their  troops,  and  making  them  advance, 
obliqueing  to  the  left,  to  avoid  the  fire  of  battery  No. 
7,  from  which  every  discharge  opened  the  column, 
and  mowed  down  whole  files,  which  were  almost  in- 
stantaneously  replaced  by  new  troops  coming  up 
close  after  the  first:  but  these  also  shared  the  same 
fate,  until  at  last,  after  twejity-five  minutcgjcontiuual 
firing,  through  which  a  few  platoons  advanced  to  the 
edge  of  the  ditch,  the  column  entirely  broke,  and 
part  of  the  troops  dispersed,  and  ran  to  take  shelter 
among  the  bushes  on  the  right.  The  rest  retired  to 
the  ditch  where  they  had  been  when  first  perceived, 
four  hundred  yards  from  our  lines. 

There  the  officers  with  some  difficulty  rallied 
their  troops,  and  again  drew  them  up  for  a  second  at 
tack,  the  soldiers  having  laid  down  their  knapsacks  at 
the  edge  of  the  ditch,  that  they  might  be  less  incum- 
bered. 

And  now,  for  the  second  time,  the  column,  re 
cruited  with  the  troops  that  formed  the  rear,  advan 
ced.  Again  it  was  received  with  the  same  rolling 
fire  of  musketry  and  artillery,  till,  having  advanced 
without  much  order  very  near  our  lines,  it  at  last 
broke  again,  and  retired  in  the  utmost  confusion.  In 


156  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

vain  did  the  officers  now  endeavour,  as  before,  to  re 
vive  the  courage  of  their  men;  to  no  purpose  did  they 
strike  them  with  the  flat  of  their  swords,  to  force 
them  to  advance:  they  were  insensible  to  every  thing 
but  danger,  and  saw  nothing  but  death  which  had 
struck  so  many  of  their  comrades. 

The  attack  on  our  lines  had  hardly  begun,  when 
the  British  Commander-in-chief,  the  honourable  sir 
Edward  Packenham,  fell  a  victim  to  his  own  intrepi 
dity,  while  endeavouring  to  animate  his  troops  with 
ardour  for  the  assault.  Soon  after  his  fall,  two  other 
generals,  Keane  and  Gibbs,  were  carried  off  the  field 
of  battle,  dangerously  wounded.  A  great  number  of 
officers  of  rank  had  fallen:  the  ground  over  which  the 
column  had  marched,  was  strewed  with  the  dead  and 
the  wounded.  Such  slaughter  on  their  side,  with  no 
loss  on  ours,  spread  consternation  through  their  ranks, 
as  they  were  now  convinced  of  the  impossibility  of  car 
rying  our  lines,  and  saw  that  even  to  advance  was  cer 
tain  death.  In  a  word,  notwithstanding  the  repeated 
efforts  of  some  officers  to  make  the  troops  form  a 
third  time,  they  would  not  advance,  and  all  that  could 
be  obtained  from  them,  was  to  draw  them  up  in  the 
ditch,  where  they  passed  the  rest  of  the  day. 

Some  of  the  enemy's  troops  had  advanced  into 
the  wood  towards  the  extremity  of  our  line,  to  make 
a  false  attack,  or  to  ascertain  whether  a  real  one  were 
practicable.  These  the  troops  under  general  Coffee 
no  sooner  perceived,  than  they  opened  on  them  a 
brisk  fire  with  their  rifles,  which  quickly  made  them 
retire.  The  greater  part  of  those  who,  on  the  co 
lumn's  being  repulsed^,  had  taken  shelter  in  the  thick- 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  157 

ets,  only  escaped  our  batteries  to  be  killed  by  our 
musketry.  During  the  whole  hour  that  the  attack 
lasted,  our  fire  did  not  slacken  for  a  single  moment; 
and  it  seemed  as  though  the  artillery  and  musketry 
Tied  with  each  other  in  vivacity. 

When  the  column  first  advanced  to  the  attack, 
the  troops  partly  moved  forward  along  the  skirt  of 
the  wood,  which  in  that  part  forms  a  curve,  and  were 
by  that  means  covered  till  they  came  within  two  hun 
dred  yards  of  our  lines.  After  the  attack  on  our  left 
had  commenced,  the  enemy  made  a  column  advance 
on  the  right  by  the  road,  and  between  the  river  and 
the  levee.  This  column  precipitately  pushing  for 
ward,  drove  in  our  out-posts,  following  them  so  close 
ly  that  it  came  up  to  the  unfinished  redoubt  before 
we  could  fire  on  it  more  than  two  discharges  of  our 
cannon.  A  part  of  the  column  leaped  into  the  ditch, 
and  got  into  the  redoubt  through  the  embrasures,  and 
over  the  parapet,  overpowering  with  their  numbers 
the  few  men  they  found  there:  others  advancing  along 
the  brink  of  the  river,  killed  the  soldiers  of  the  7th, 
who  bravely  defended  their  post  at  the  point  of  the 
bayonet,  against  a  number  much  superior,  and  conti 
nually  increasing. 

To  get  into  the  redoubt  was  not  a  very  arduous 
achievement:  the  difficulty  was  to  maintain  possession 
of  it,  and  clear  the  breastwork  of  the  entrenchment  in 
the  rear  of  the  redoubt,  which  still  remained  to  be 
attacked.  Already  several  British  officers,  though 
wounded,  were  bravely  advancing  to  encourage  their 
inen  by  their  example. 


158  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

Colonel  Uence,  followed  by  two  other  officers  of 
high  rank,  had  begun  to  mount  the  breastwork,  when 
the  gallant  volunteer  riflemen  under  captain  Beale, 
who  defended  the  head  of  the  line,  made  them  all  find 
their  graves  in  that  redoubt  which  they  had  mastered 
with  so  much  gallantry.     Meanwhile,  captain  Hum 
phreys'  battery  No.    1,  lieutenaut  Norris's  No.   2, 
and  the  7th  regiment,  which  was  the  only  one  within 
musket- shot,   kept  up  a  tremendous  fire  on  that  co 
lumn,  which,  like  that  on  the  left,  was  obliged  to  fall 
back  in  disorder,  leaving  the  road,  the  levee,  and  the 
brink  of  the  river,  strewed  with  its  dead  and  wounded. 
The  enemy  had  opened  the  fire  of  the  battery 
which  he  erected  on  the  road  on  the  28th  of  Decem 
ber,  as  also  of  that  erected  on  the  1st  of  January,  be 
hind  the  demolished  buildings  of  Chalmette's  planta 
tion.     The  fire  was  at  first  very^bfisk,  and  was  prin 
cipally  directed  against  Macarty's  house,  in  hopes 
that  the  general  and  his  staff  might  still  be  there:  but 
to  the  enemy's  disappointment,  the  general  and  all  the 
officers  had  repaired  to  their  post  on  the  lines,  long 
before  daybreak.     The  only  mischief  done  by  that 
prodigious  expense  of  balls  and  shells,  was  that  ma 
jor  Chotard,  assistant  adjutant- general,  received  a 
contusion  in  his  shoulder,  and  four  or  five  pillars  of 
the  house  were  knocked  down.     Our  batteries,  Nos. 
2,  3,  and  4,  principally  directed  their  fire  against 
those  of  the  enemy,  and  dismounted  several  of  the 
guns  erected  near  Chalmette's  buildings.    Battery 
No.  1,  after  having  poured  a  shower  of  grape-shot 
on  the  enemy's  troops  as  they  retreated,  turned  its 
fire  against  his  battery  which  was  opposite  to  it,  and 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  159 

in  less  than  two  hours,  forced  the  men  to  evacuate 
it.  The  marine  battery  on  the  right  bank  also  fired 
on  the  enemy's  column  as  it  advanced  along  the  brink 
of  the  river,  until  the  troops  which  landed  on  the  right 
bank,  pushed  forward,  and  obliged  the  seamen  who 
served  it  to  attend  to  their  own  defence. 

By  half  after  eight  in  the  morning,  the  fire  of  the 
musketry  had  ceased.  The  whole  plain  on  the  left, 
as  also  the  side  of  the  river,  from  the  road  to  the  edge 
of  the  water,  was  covered  with  the  British  soldiers  who 
had  fallen.  About  four  hundred  wounded  prisoners 
were  taken,  and  at  least  double  that  number  of  wound 
ed  men  escaped  into  the  British  camp;  and,  what 
might  perhaps  appear  incredible,  were  there  not  ma 
ny  thousands  ready  to  attest  the  fact,  is  that  a  space  of 
ground,  extending  from  the  ditch  of  our  lines  to  that 
on  which  the  enemy  drew  up  his  troops,  two  hundred 
and  fifty  yards  in  length,  by  about  two  hundred  in 
breadth,  was  literally  covered  with  men,  either  dead 
or  severely  wounded.  About  forty  men  were  killed 
in  the  ditch,  up  to  which  they  had  advanced,  and  about 
the  same  number  were  there  made  prisoners.  .The 
artillery  of  our  lines  kept  up  a  fire  against  the  ene 
my's  batteries  and  troops  until  two  o'clock  in  the 
afternoon.  By  the  disposition  of  his  troops,  the  ene 
my  appeared  to  apprehend  lest  we  should  make  a  sor 
tie,  and  attack  him  in  his  camp.  The  soldiers  were 
drawn  up  in  the  ditches,  in  several  parallel  lines,  and 
all  those  who  had  been  slightly  wounded,  as  soon  as 
their  wounds  were  dressed,  were  sent  to  join  their 
corps,  to  make  their  number  of  effective  men  appear 
the  greater,  and  show  a  firm  countenance.  The  ene- 


160  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

my's  loss  on  the  left  bank,  in  the  affair  of  the  8th  of 
January,  was  immense,  considering  the  short  duration 
of  the  contest,  the  ground,  and  the  respective  num 
ber  of  the  contending  forces.  According  to  the  most 
probable  accounts,  it  cannot  have  amounted  to  less 
than  three  thousand  men  in  killed,  wounded,  and  pri 
soners.  The  number  of  officers  who  fell  that  day  is 
a  much  greater  loss  in  proportion,  owing  to  the  ne 
cessity  they  were  under  of  exposing  themselves  in 
the  brunt  of  the  battle,  to  encourage  the  men,  and 
lead  them  on  to  the  desperate  assault.  Our  loss  was 
comparatively  inconsiderable,  amounting  to  no  more 
than  thirteen  in  killed  and  wounded,  on  the  left  bank 
of  the  Mississippi.) 

I  deem  it  my  indispensable  duty  to  do  justice  to 
the  intrepid  bravery  displayed  in  that  attack  by  the 
British  troops,  especially  by  the  officers.  If  any  thing 
was  wanting  towards  the  attack's  being  conducted 
with  judgment  (speaking  in  a  general  and  military 
point  of  view)  it  was,  in  my  opinion,  that  they  did 
not  in  the  onset  sacrifice  the  regularity  of  their  move 
ments  to  promptitude  and  celerity.  The  column 
marched  on  with  the  ordinary  step,  animating  their 
courage  with  huzzas,  instead  of  pushing  on  with  fix 
ed  bayonets,  au  pas  de  charge.  But  it  is  well  known 
that  agility  is  not  the  distinctive  quality  of  British 
troops.  Their  movement  is  in  general  sluggish  and 
difficult,  steady,  but  too  precise,  or  at  least  more 
suitable  for  a  pitched  battle,  or  behind  intrenchments, 
than  for  an  assault.  The  British  soldiers  showed,  on 
this  occasion,  that  it  is  not  without  reason  they  are 
said  to  be  deficient  in  agility.  The  enormous  load 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR,  161 

they  had  to  carry  contributed  indeed  not  a  little  to 
the  difficulty  of  their  movement.  Besides  their  knap 
sacks,  usually  weighing  nearly  thirty  pounds,  and 
their  musket,  too  heavy  by  at  least  one  third,  almost 
all  of  them  had  to  carry  a  fascine  from  nine  to  ten 
inches  in  diameter,  and  four  feet  long,  made  of  sugar- 
canes  perfectly  ripe,  and  consequently  very  heavy,  or 
a  ladder  from  ten  to  twelve  fecfc  long. 

The  duty  of  impartiality,  incumbent  on  him  who 
relates  military  events,  obliges  me  to  observe  that  the 
attack  made  on  Jackson's  lines,  by  the  British,  on  the 
8th  of  January,  must  have  been  determined  on  by 
their  generals,  without  any  consideration  of  the 
ground,  the  weather,  or  the  difficulties  to  be  sur 
mounted,  before  they  could  storm  lines,  defended  by 
militia  indeed,  but  by  militia  whose  valour  they  had 
already  witnessed,  with  soldiers  bending  under  the 
weight  of  their  load,  when  a  man,  luiincumbered  and 
unopposed,  would  that  day  have  found  it  difficult  to 
mouut  our  breastwork  at  leisure  and  with  circumspec 
tion,  so  extremely  slippery  was  the  soil.  Yet  those 
officers  had  had  time  and  abundant  opportunity  to 
observe  the  ground  on  which  the  troops  were  to  act. 
Since  their  arrival  on  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi, 
they  had  sufficiently  seen  the  effects  of  rainy  weather 
to  form  a  just  idea  of  the  difficulty  their  troops  must 
have  experienced,  in  climbing  up  our  intrenchments, 
even  had  the  column  been  suffered  to  advance,  with 
out  opposition,  as  far  as  the  ditch.  But  they  were 
blinded  by  their  pride.  The  vain  presumption  of 
their  superiority,  and  their  belief  that  the  raw  militia 
of  Kentucky  and  Tennessee,  who  now  for  the  first 


162  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR, 

time  had  issued  from  their  fields,  could  not  stand  be 
fore  the  very  sight  of  so  numerous  a  body  of  regular 
troops  advancing  to  attack  them,  made  them  disre 
gard  the  admonition  of  sober  reason.  Had  they  at  all 
calculated  on  the  possibility  of  resistance,  they  would 
have  adopted  a  different  plan  of  attack,  which,  how 
ever,  I  am  far  from  thinking  would  have  been  ulti 
mately  successful. 

It  has  been  repeated  that  division  prevailed  in  a 
council  of  war,  and  that  admiral  Cochrane,  combat- 
ing  the  opinion  of  general  Packenham,  who,  with 
more  judgment,  was  for  making  the  main  attack  on 
the  right  bank,  boasted  that  he  would  undertake  to 
storm  our  lines  with  two  thousand  sailors,  armed  on 
ly  with  swords  and  pistols.  -I  know  not  how  far  this 
report  may  deserve  credit,  but  if  the  British  com- 
mander-in-chief  was  so  unmindful  of  what  he  owed 
his  country,  who  had  committed  to  his  prudence  the 
lives  and  honours  of  several  thousands  of  her  soldiers, 
as  to  yield  to  the  ill-judged  and  rash  advice  of  the 
admiral,  his  memory  will  be  loaded  with  the  heavy 
charge  of  having  sacrificed  reason  in  a  moment  of  ir 
ritation,  though  he  atoned  with  his  life  for  having 
acted  contrary  to  his  own  judgment. 

/But  to  return  to  the  attack  on  our  lines.  I  can 
not  forbear  to  mention  a  fact  which  fully  proves  the 
truth  of  my  assertion  in  the  beginning  of  this  narra- 
tive,  that  the  British  had  come  to  America  to  carry 
o$  war  in  the  spirit  of  atrocity,  determined  to  employ 
all  means  whatever  to  shed  American  blood,  and  glut 
th^ir  rage  against  us. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  163 

As  soon  as  the  wrecks  of  the  British  column  had 
disappeared,  the  fire  of  our  musketry  ceased,  and  our 
artillery  only  fired  at  intervals  at  the  enemy's  batte 
ries,  or  at  scattered  platoons  that  were  perceived  in 
the  wood.  At  this  time,  men  from  all  our  different 
corps,  prompted  merely  by  sentiments  of  humanity, 
went,  of  their  own  accord,  to  assist  the  wounded 
British,  to  give  them  drink,  and  carry  them  (as  they 
did  several  on  their  backs)  within  our  lines.  All 
our  troops  unanimously  applauded  the  humane  senti 
ments  of  those  brave  men,  whose  dauntless  hearts 
were  grieved  to  behold  the  slaughter  of  the  day,  and 
in  their  wounded  enemy  saw  but  their  suffering  fel 
low  creature. 

But,  with  horror  I  record  the  atrocity!  while  they 
were  in  the  very  act  of  administering  consolation — - 
while  they  were  carrying  the  wounded  British — the 
troops  that  were  in  the  ditch  (in  front  of  our  lines) 
fired  on  them,  and  killed  and  wounded  some  men. 
Yet  the  others,  regardless  of  the  danger  to  which  they 
exposed  themselves,  persevered  in  their  laudable 
purpose.  This  instance  of  baseness  may  have  pro- 
ceeded  from  individuals;  nor  can  it  be  presumed  that 
the  men  were  ordered  to  fire  by  any  officer  of  rank. 
The  known  tenor  of  general  Lambert's  honourable 
and  soldierly  conduct,  sets  the  commander- in- chief 
far  above  the  suspicion  of  his  being  capable  of  such 
atrocity.  But  the  officers  who  commanded  the  troops 
in  the  ditch,  within  musket- shot  of  the  men  fired  on, 
cannot  allege  that  they  misconceived  the  intention  of 
our  men,  most  of  them  being  unarmed,  and  assisting' 
the  wounded.  They  were  near  enough  to  see  their 


164  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

actions,  and  seeing  these,  they  could  not  possibly  mis 
conceive  their  motives.  Upon  a  full  view  of  this 
fact  then,  whatever  reluctance  we  may  feel,  in  brand 
ing  with  infamy  military  men  whose  actions  should 
ever  be  directed  by  honour — men,  amongst  whom 
there  were  perhaps  several  who  wore  the  honourable 
decorations  of  valour  and  good  conduct,  we  cannot 
forbear  to  give  them  the  appellation  of  barbarians. 
The  private  soldiers  cannot  be  reproached  with  this 
atrocious  act;  the  guilt  of  it  rests  solely  with  those 
who  commanded  them.— (See  note  No.  2,  at  the  end 
of  the  volume,)  _  1 

After  having  per  used,  with  pleasing  sensations,  the 
recital  of  the  brilliant  defence  made  by  our  troops  on 
the  left  bank,  every  American,  whose  bosom  glows 
with  the  love  of  his  country,  must  learn  with  pain  the 
contrast  exhibited  in  what  took  place  on  the  right,  the 
consequences  of  which  were  likely  to  have  been  so 
disastrous,  that  even  now  my  mind  shudders  at  the 
recollection  of  that  moment,  when,  seeing  our  troops 
on  the  right  bank  fall  back  in  disorder,  while  the  ene 
my  was  rapidly  advancing  towards  the  city,  all  of  us 
who  were,  at  Jackson's  lines,  were  suddenly  hurried 
from  the  transporting  joy  of  victory  to  the  fear  of 
shortly  seeing  all  its  advantages  wrested  from  our 
grasp. 

As  the  affair  to  which  the  course  of  my  narrative 
has  now  brought  me,  is  the  only  disaster  we  expe 
rienced  during  the  campaign,  the  only  fault  commit 
ted  on  our  defensive  operations,  I  must  request  the 
indulgent  attention  of  the  reader,  while  I  lay  before 
him  a  minute,  and  perhaps  irksome,  detail  of  circum- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  165 

stances  necessary  to  be  known,  in  order  that  he  may 
become  perfectly  acquainted  with  the  causes  of  that 
unfortunate  event. 

At  the  period  when  the  quota  of  Louisiana  was 
levied,  brigadier-general  David  Morgan,  of  the  mi 
litia,  was  appointed  to  command  it.  We  have  seen 
that  after  the  affair  of  the  23d  of  December,  he  was 
ordered  to  leave  the  cantonment  at  the  English  Turn, 
on  the  left  bank,  and  cross  the  river  to  encamp  on 
the  right  bank  opposite  Jackson's  lines.  (See  plate 
No.  5.)  Agreeably  to  those  orders,  he  made  his 
troops  take  post  near  the  saw-mill,  on  Flood's  plan 
tation.  A  few  days  after,  those  troops  moved  for 
ward  to  Jourdan's  plantation,  next  to  that  of  Flood's, 
where  they  remained  till  the  7th  of  January,  on  which 
day  they  took  a  position  along  Raguet's  old  canal, 
near  the  lower  boundary  of  the  plantation.  At  this 
time  the  contingent  amounted  to  no  more  than  two 
hundred  and  sixty  effective  men. 

We  have  already  seen  that  in  the  morning  of  the 
4th  the  second  regiment  of  Louisiana  militia,  colonel 
Zenon  Cavelier  had  crossed  over  to  the  right  bank, 
and  encamped  on  Cazelard's  plantation.  On  the  7th, 
that  regiment  also  took  a  position  on  Raguet's  canal, 
on  the  left  of  the  quota;  its  effective  force  being  then 
only  one  hundred  and  seventy-six  men  armed. 

The  first  regiment  of  militia,  under  colonel  De- 
jean,  quitted,  in  the  evening  of  the  6th,  the  position 
it  occupied  on  the  Piernas  canal,  and  that  same  day 
took  a  station  on  the  left  of  the  2d  regiment,  and 
formed  the  extremity  of  the  line  on  the  bank  of  the 
river.  To  this  regiment  was  annexed  a  detachment, 


166  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

of  the  6th  Louisiana  militia,  forming  together  a  force 
af  one  hundred  and  ten  men,  some  ill  armedvthe  rest 
without  any  arms. 

General  Morgan  took  the  command  of  those 
troops,  which,  as  I  have  already  observed,  he  station 
ed  along  Raguet's  old  canal,  where  he  had  com 
menced  lines  of  defence  two  hundred  yards  in  length, 
which  was  but  a  very  small  portion  of  the  whole 
length  of  the  canal,  this  extending  about  two  thou 
sand  yards  to  the  wood.  Thus  all  that  part  on  the 
right  of  the  space  of  two  hundred  yards,  where  a 
breastwork  had  been  begun,  was  without  any  other 
defence  than  a  ditch,  and  exposed  to  be  turned;  this, 
we  shall  see,  is  what  actually  happened. 

Towards  the  beginning  of  January,  while  I  was 
carrying  on  works  at  the  line  on  Boisgervais'  canal, 
general  Jackson  ordered  me  to  assist  general  Mor 
gan  in  choosing  an  advanced  position,  opposite  Jack- 
Son's  lines,  for  the  purpose  of  establishing  lines  of 
defence,  suitable  to  the  number  of  troops  on  the  right 
bank,  and  to  the  nature  of  the  situation;  and,  on  the 
choice  being  made,  to  draw  a  plan  of  the  works,  and 
immediately  employ  in  their  execution  all  the  negroes 
that  had  till  then  been  working  at  the  battery,  near 
the  powder-magazine,  and  at  Boisgervais'  line,  which 
then  became  a  second  line. 

Agreeably  to  these  orders  I  waited  on  general 
Morgan,  whom  I  met  accompanied  by  his  staff,  and  by 
commodore  Patterson,  inspecting  all  the  canals  in  the 
vicinity.  I  communicated  to  him  my,  orders,  observ 
ing  that  I  was  at  his  disposal.  The  general  continued 
his  inspection,  and  returned  to  his  quarters,  without 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  167 

having  come  to  any  determination,  only  that  he  appear 
ed  inclined  to  make  choice  of  the  position  of  the  canal 
of  Raguet;  he  then  desired  I  would  inspect  the  differ 
ent  situations  myself,  and  make  my  report  to  him.  My 
orders  directed  me  to  assist  general  Morgan,  and  my 
opinion  was  of  course  entirely  subordinate  to  his  de 
cision.  I  beg  the  reader  to  excuse  my  appearing 
here  in  a  conspicuous  light,  and  to  believe  that  it  is 
with  much  reluctance  I  am  forced  to  speak  of  myself, 
in  investigating  the  cause  of  a  disastrous  event;  my 
purpose  being  to  show,  by  the  simple  recital  of  facts, 
that  the  disaster  might  perhaps  have  been  avoided, 
had  another  point  for  defence  been  adopted. 

I  chose  for  the  intended  lines  of  defence,  an  inter 
mediate  position,  nearly  at  equal  distance  from  Ra- 
guet's  and  Jourdan's  canals,  in  a  place  where  the 
wood  inclines  towards  the  river,  leaving  only  a  space 
of  about  nine  hundred  yards  of  open  ground.  The 
adjoining  wood  being  impassable,  works  occupying 
this  whole  space  could  not  be  turned.  A  rough 
draught,  conformable  to  the  plan  in  plate  No.  5,  un 
der  the  title  of  intended  line,  was  made,  and  immedi 
ately  the  overseer  of  the  works  set  his  men  to  execute 
this  line.  Having  gone  over  to  the  left  bank,  I  made 
my  report  to  the  commander-in-chief,  who  approved 
of  the  dispositions  made,  and  was  sensible  of  the  ad 
vantage  of  the  position  that  had  been  chosen.  That  it 
was  a  good  position,  may  be  seen  on  a  view  of  the 
map.  The  small  distance  between  the  wood  and  the 
river,  required  but  from  a  thousand  to  twelve  hun 
dred  men  to  guard  it,  and  half  that  number  would 
have  been  sufficient,  had  pieces  of  cannon  been 


168  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

mounted  in  the  intended  outworks.  To  attack  that 
line,  the  enemy  must  have  advanced  in  the  open 
plain,  which  was  commanded  in  every  direction  by 
the  salient  parts  of  the  intrenchments.  The  wood,  as 
I  have  before  observed,  was  impassable  towards  the 
extremity  of  that  line;  the  enemy's  batteries  on  the 
left  bank  could  not  have  infiladed  its  rear,  as  was  the 
case  with  that  established  on  Raguet's  canal.  The 
former,  in  short,  united  all  advantages,  and  I  dare 
affirm  that,  had  the  works  been  completed,  the  Bri 
tish  would  not  have  ventured  to  advance  within  can 
non-shot.  That  line,  defended  only  by  the  troops 
that  were  on  the  right  bank,  on  the  8th  amounting  to 
about  eight  hundred  men,  might  have  defied  the  at 
tempts  of  the  British,  had  they  come  with  three  or 
four  times  the  number  that  crossed  the  river,  and 
might  have  given  them  a  reception  similar  to  that 
which  they  experienced  on  the  left  bank.  But  these 
dispositions  had  been  changed,  and  the  negroes  or 
dered  to  be  set  to  work  on  Raguet's  canal. 

This  line,  also  marked  in  the  Map,  plate  No.  5, 
had  a  kind  of  bastion  on  the  bank  of  the  river,  and  a 
small  redan  at  some  distance  on  the  right.  In  the 
afternoon  of  the  7th,  general  Morgan  caused  one 
twelve-pounder  and  two  six-pounders  to  be  mounted 
on  the  line. 

I  have  already  observed,  that  on  the  6th  it  was 
suspected  that  the  enemy  intended  to  cross  over  to 
the  right  bank;  in  the  afternoon  of  the  7th,  there  no 
longer  remained  any  doubt  of  this  intention.  A  lit 
tle  after  sunset  general  Morgan  was  informed  that 
the  enemy  was  ready  to  cross  the  river,  and  that  he 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  169 

might  hourly  expect  to  be  attacked.  On  the  8th, 
before  break  of  day,  he  received  information  of  the 
landing  of  the  enemy  on  the  strand  of  Andry's  plan 
tation.  Three  miles  in  advance  of  the  line,  on  Mo- 
rin's  estate,  half  a  mile  above  the  spot  where  the 
enemy  landed,  a  detachment  of  one  hundred  men  of 
the  6th  of  militia,  under  the  command  of  major  Ar- 
naud,had  been  stationed,  to  oppose  his  landing.  These 
men  were  very  ill  armed,  most  of  them  having  only 
fowling-pieces,  and  musket-cartridges  too  large  for 
them;  several  of  them  were  even  without  any  arms, 
and  not  one  of  them,  I  believe,  excepting  their  com 
mander,  had  ever  been  opposed  to  an  enemy  before. 
It  is  little  strange,  then,  that  they  retreated.  The 
enemy  landed  much  lower  than  was  his  intention,  ha 
ving  been  carried  down  by  the  strength  of  the  current. 
It  was  owing  to  this  circumstance,  that  the  attack  on 
the  right  bank,  which  was  to  have  been  simultaneous 
with  that  on  the  left,  did  not  commence  until  the  lat 
ter  had  completely  failed,  and  our  musketry,  having 
routed  the  enemy,  had  ceased  firing.  Having  landed 
his  troops,  the  enemy  ascended  the  river  in  his  boats, 
carrying  carronades  and  cannon,  and  keeping  close  to 
the  bank,  covered  the  flank  of  his  troops,  and  dis 
charged  grape-shot  against  ours,  who  retired  as  he 
advanced. 

In  the  evening  of  the  7th,  general  Jackson  load 
ordered  general  Aclair,  on  whom,  in  consequence  of 
the  sickness  of  general  Thomas,  had  devolved  the 
qhief  command  of  the  Kentucky  militia,  to  send  a 
detachment  of  five  hundred  men,  to  re-enforce  gene 
ral  Morgan's  camp.  The  command  of  this  re-en- 


170  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

forccment  was  given  to  colonel  Davis,  and  after  much 
fatigue  and  difficulty  in  crossing  the  river,  the  detach 
ment  arrived,  harassed  and  exhausted,  at  four  o'clock 
in  the  morning,  on  Morgan's  line,  and  there  received 
orders  to  advance,  to  meet  and  repulse  the  enemy. 
What  was  the  exact  number  of  men  under  colonel 
Davis,  has  been  a  question  of  much  contest.  It  ap 
pears  pretty  certain  that,  on  leaving  the  camp  of  Pre- 
vest's  plantation,  he  had  five  hundred  men;  that  only 
one-fourth  part  of  these  had  arms,  mostly  in  an  ill 
condition,  and  that  about  seventy  of  them  received 
arms  at  the  naval  arsenal;  that  colonel  Davis  had  not 
above  two  hundred  and  fifty  armed  men  with  him, 
when  he  arrived  at  Morgan's  line,  the  rest  having  re 
mained  behind,  spent  with  fatigue,  and  faint  for  want 
of  food,  having  taken  hardly  any  nourishment  since 
the  morning  of  the  7th.  They  had  marched  five 
miles,  from  the  ferry  near  the  powder  magazine  to 
the  line,  in  bad  roads,  sometimes  knee-deep  in  mud. 
It  appears  also  that  their  arms  were  in  an  ill  condition, 
their  ammunition  bad,  and  several  of  their  muskets 
without  flints,  some  having  nothing  but  pebbles  in 
their  stead.  What  could  be  expected  from  men  thus 
dispirited,  ill  armed  and  exhausted  with  inanition  and 
fatigue? 

Colonel  Davis  took  his  station  on  Mayhew's 
canal,  about  a  mile  in  advance  of  Morgan's 
line,  his  left  resting  on  the  river  bank.  On  the 
right  of  his  detachment  was  stationed  that  of  major 
Arnaud,  consisting,  as  I  have  already  observed,  of 
one  hundred  men,  of  whom  fifteen  were  without 
arms,  and  the  others  were  armed  with  fowling-pieces. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIK.    ,  171 

The  enemy  arrived  in  considerable  force,  and  attack 
ed  that  *  position  with  the  troops  that  had  landed, 
while  his  boats  fired  grape-shot  at  our  flank.  Colonel 
Davis  made  his  troops  fire  two  or  three  volleys,  not 
without  effect;  but  finding  it  impossible  to  maintain 
his  ground  any  longer,  as  the  enemy  had  already  out 
flanked  him  on  the  right,  seeing  himself  abandoned 
by  the  detachment  of  major  Arnaud,  which,  in  spite 
of  all  the  major's  efforts  to  rally  it,  had  taken  to  the 
wood,  he  determined  to  make  his  retreat  on  Morgan's 
lines,  where  he  took  a  position  on  the  right,  along  the 
canal,  beyond  the  part  that  was  fortified.     It  is  to  be 
observed,  that  owing  to  some  cause  to  me  unknown, 
there  was  a  space  unoccupied  between  the  right  of 
colonel  Declouet,   commanding  the  detachment  of 
drafted  militia,  and  colonel  Davis's  left.     The  troops 
under  the  latter's  command,  occupied  a  considerable 
front,  the  men  were  placed  several  feet  from  each 
other;  and  finally,  on  the  same  canal,  but  two  hun 
dred  yards  further  to  the  right,  was  stationed  lieute 
nant-colonel  Caldwell,  also  of  the  drafted  militia,  with 

? " 

a  detachment  of  sixteen  men.  The  disposition  of 
the  troops  on  these  lines,  when  colonel  Davis  took 
his  station  there,  was  therefore  as  follows:  The  first; 
regiment  of  militia,  on  the  river;  on  its  right  the  se 
cond  regiment;  on  the  right  of  this  last,  the  drafted 
militia  of  Louisiana.  These  corps  occupied  the 
whole  length  of  the  fortified  line.  Next  to  this  was 
a  space  unguarded,  extending  to  the  left  of  colonel 
Davis,  whose  command  occupied  on  the  canal  three 
hundred  yards  in  front;  and  finally  two  hundred  yards 
from  his  right  was  stationed  colonel  Caldwell  with 


172  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

sixteen  men;  the  whole  forming  a  total  of  about  six 
hundred  men,  one-third  of  whom,  as  before  observed, 
were  ill  armed.  There  were  mounted  on  those  lines 
three  pieces  of  cannon,  one  a  twelve -pounder,  com 
manded  by  midshipman  Philibert,  and  two  six- 
pounders,  the  one  commanded  by  Mr.  Batique,  for 
merly  a  captain  of  a  vessel,  the  other  by  Mr.  Hos- 
mer,  both  these  gentlemen  belonging  to  the  first  re 
giment  of  militk. 

The  enemy  advancing  rapidly  by  the  road  oppo 
site  the  left  of  the  line,  the  artillery  played  on  him 
with  effect,  and  as  soon  as  he  approached  near 
enough,  the  musketry  also  began  to  fire;  which  ha 
ving  obliged  him  to  fall  back,  he  next  directed  his 
attack  against  our  right,  one  column  moving  towards 
the  wood,  and  the  other  towards  the  centre  of  the  line. 
It  was  now  that  was  felt  the  effect  of  the  bad  posi 
tion  that  we  occupied.  One  of  the  enemy's  columns 
turned  our  troops,  «t  the  extremity  of  colonel  Davis's 
detachment,  while  the  other  penetrated  into  the  un 
guarded  space  between  that  detachment  and  the 
drafted  militia.  On  this,  the  Kentucky  militia  gave 
way,  nor  was  it  possible  from  that  moment  to  rally 
then5!,  though  their  officers  ami  general  Morgan  made 
every  exertion  for  that  purpose.  Confidence  had 
vanished,  and  with  it  all  spirit  of  resistance.  If,  in 
stead  of  extending  over  so  considerable  a  space,  those 
troops  had  been  formed  in  close  column,  the  confu 
sion  that  took  place  might  easily  have  been  avoided; 
and  in  case  of  a  retreat's  becoming  necessary,  it 
might  have  been  made  in  good  order,  our  troops 
still  keeping  up  their  fire. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR,  173 

The  enemy  having  turned  our  right,  pushed  on 
towards  our  left,  which  continued  firing  as  long  as 
possible;  and  at  last  the  cannon  was  spiked,  just  as 
the  enemy  arrived  on  the  bank  of  the  canal. 

Commodore  Patterson,  who,  from  break  of  day 
had,  without  intermission,  kept  up  a  fire  from  the 
guns  of  the  marine  battery,  on  the  enemy's  troops 
advancing  up  the  road,  wished  now  to  turn  his  can 
non,  in  order  to  fire  on  those  who  had  forced  the 
right  of  the  line;  but  the  Kentucky  troops  and  the 
drafted  militia,  masked  the  guns,  and  it  was  im 
possible  to  fire  without  killing  our  own  men.  Seeing 
this,  the  commodore,  enraged,  I  dare  say,  determined 
to  spike  his  cannon,  throw  the  ammunition  into  the 
river,  and  go  on  board  the  Louisiana. 

The  first  and  second  regiments  retreated  by  the 
road,  and  went  to  take  a  position  on  Boisgervais'  line, 
where  a  considerable  number  of  the  flying  troops  ral 
lied.  Jourdan's  mill  and  bridge,  and  successively 
those  of  Flood  and  Cazelard  were  set  on  fire, 

A  small  detachment  of  the  enemy  advanced  as  far 
as  the  bridge  of  Cazelard's  canal,  and  retired  before 
evening;  and  in  the  course  of  the  night  all  the  ene 
my's  troops  recrqssed  to  the  left  bank. 

Let  us  now  take  a  retrospective  view  of  this  affair, 
and  let  us  examine  the  respective  conduct  of  the  corps 
of  troops  which  defended  the  right  bank.  The  task 
is  painful  indeed,  but  indispensable;  for  justice  re 
quires  that  it  should  be  ascertained  on  which  side  lies 
the  misconduct,  that  it  may  not  be  wrongfully  im 
puted. 


174  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

The  principal  charges  brought  against  the  Ken- 
tuckians  are,  that  they  fled  before  the  enemy,  when 
they  ought  to  have  waited  for  him  at  the  point  of  the 
bayonet;  that  they  retreated  in  disorder,  instead  of 
keeping*  up  their  fire   as   they   retired.     To  thece 
charges  they  answer,   "  We  were  very  ill  armed;  we 
had  been  on  our  feet  for  twenty -four  hours,  during 
which  time  we  had  hardly  tasted  food;  the  cartridges 
we  had  were  too  large  for  our  pieces;  on  our  arrival 
before  day,  after  a  hard  march  of  several  leagues  partly 
through  the  mud,  without  being  allowed  a  moment's 
rest,  we  were  ordered  to  advance  a  mile  further; 
having  obeyed  without  a  murmur,  we  found  our- 
selves  within  view  of  the  enemy,  on  whom  we  fired 
several  volleys,  maintaining  that  position,  which  was 
none  of  the  best,  until  being  outflanked  on  our  right, 
and  cannonaded  with  grape-shot  from   the   barges 
on  our  left,  we  were  forced  to  retreat  on  Morgan's 
line,   where  we   were   ordered   to  take  a  position 
along  a  canal,  uncovered  and  extended  on  a  front  of 
three  hundred  yards,  our  left  separated  from  the  other 
troops  by  an  unguarded  space  of  ground,  and  our 
right  covered  by  a  paltry  detachment  of  sixteen  men, 
stationed  two  hundred  yards  from  us;  a  vast  plain, 
affording  no  manner  of  shelter,  lying  in  our  rear.  We 
were  turned  on  the  right,  and  cut  off  on  the  left.    In 
so  precarious  a  situation,  how  could  we  avoid  giving 
way?"     To  this  it  may  be  answered,  that  the  Ken- 
tuckians  might  have  retreated  without  flying  in  dis 
order.     While  I  acknowledge  that  observation  to  be 
just,  I  believe  that  veteran  troops  of  the  line,  in  a  less 
perilous  situation,  have  not  unfrequently  been  seized 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  175 

with  a  panic,  and  given  way;  nor  do  I  think  that  any 
military  man  of  much  experience  will  be  surprised 
that  militia  troops,  ill  armed,  drawn  up,  like  Indians, 
on  an  immense  front,  seeing  themselves  turned  and 
cut  off  by  troops  of  the  line,  quitted  their  post,  and 
retired  in  disorder. 

What  took  place  on  the  right  bank,  had  made  so 
much  sensation  in  the  immediate  seat  of  war,  and  had 
been  so  variously  reported  abroad,  to  the  disparage- 
ment  of  many  brave  men,  that  I  thought  it  a  duty 
mcumbcnt  on  me  to  inquire  into  particulars,  and  trace 
the  effect  to  its  cause.  I  have  stated  facts  from  the 
best  information.  I  have  made  observations  and 
drawn  inferences.  The  decision  is  left  to  the  judg 
ment  of  the  reader. 

The  result  of  the  attack  made  by  the  enemy  on 
the  right  bank,  was,  on  his  part,  the  loss  of  one  hun 
dred  and  twenty  men  killed  or  wounded,  and  on  ours 
that  of  one  man  killed  and  five  wounded. — (See  in 
Appendix  general  Jackson's  and  commodore  Patter 
son's  letters,  No.  29.) 

The  Commander-in-chief  having  received  intelli 
gence  of  the  retreat  of  the  troops  on  the  right  bank, 
ordered  general  Humbert,  who  had  tendered  his  ser 
vices  as  a  volunteer,  to  cross  over  with  a  re-enforce 
ment  of  four  hundred  men,  take  the  comjnand  of  the 
troops,  and  repulse  the  enemy,  cost  what  it  might. 
This  general  arriving  on  the  ground,  communicated 
to  general  Morgan  the  order  he  had  received,  which 
was  only  verbal,  owing  to  the  urgency  of  the  occasion 
The  latter  appeared  inclined  to  furnish  general  Hum 
bert  with  the  means  of  justifying  the  confidence  with 


176  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

which  general  Jack  son  had  honoured  him;  but  there 
arose  disputes  concerning  military  precedence.  Other 
militia  officers  did  not  think  it  right  that  a  French 
general,  enjoying  the  confidence  of  a  large  proportion 
of  the  troops;  known  by  a  reputation  which  he  had 
acquired,  not  on  parade,  or  at  reviews,  but  by  his 
sword;  holding  a  rank  which  he  owed,  not  to  the 
commission  of  a  state  governor  and  legislative  as 
sembly,  but  to  which  he  had  been  raised,  step  by 
step,  through  all  the  inferior  grades,  and  after  having 
fought  in  a  number  of  battles — those  officers,  I  say, 
did  not  think  it  becoming,  that  the  general  to  whom, 
the  French  government  had  formerly  confided  the 
command  of  that  expedition  to  Ireland,  which  will 
ever  be  recorded  in  the  glorious  pages  of  history, 
should  be  sent  to  remedy  the  faults  of  others,  and 
repulse  invaders,  who,  perhaps,  \vould  not,  with  im 
punity,  have  landed  on  that  bank,  had  he  there  com 
manded.  Happily,  during  this  discussion,  the  ene 
my,  as  I  have  observed,  thought  it  prudent  to  retreat, 
which  they  did  that  night  and  next  morning.  General 
Jackson  made  an  address  to  the  troops  on  the  right 
bank,  on  the  subject  of  the  retreat  they  had  made  be 
fore  the  enemy.  That  document,  breathing  the  most 
noble  sentiments  of  patriotism  and  military  ardor, 
cannot  fail  to  be  read  with  pleasure.  (See  Appendix? 
No.  30.) 

In  the  course  of  the  afternoon,  the  enemy  sent  a 
flag  of  truce,  proposing  a  suspension  of  arms,  for  the 
purpose  of  burying  the  dead.  General  Jackson  would 
grant  a  suspension  for  no  longer  than  two  hours,  and 
only  for  the  left  bank;  military  operations  being  to 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  177 

continue  on  the  right  bank  as  usual,  flags  of  truce 
were  reciprocally  passing  until  near  four  in  the  after 
noon.  At  that  hour,  our  batteries  again  began  to 
cannonade  those  of  the  enemy,  and  our  heavy  artille 
ry  fired  on  the  buildings  of  Laronde's  and  Bienvenu's 
plantations,  where  some  groups  of  soldiers  were 
seen.  From  one  of  the  deserters  who  came  over  in 
the  evening  of  the  6th  we  learned,  that  the  enemy's 
loss  amounted  to  three  thousand  men,  and  that  the 
commander-in-chief  was  killed,  and  generals  Gibbs 
and  Keane  wounded.  General  Lambert,  on  whom 
the  command  had  devolved,  was  lately  arrived,  and 
was  unknown  to  this  deserter,  who  could  not  tell  who 
commanded  the  British  army.'* 

*  In  the  evening  of  the  8th  of  January,  the  wounded  pri 
soners  were  conveyed  to  New  Orleans,  and  lodged  in  the  bar 
racks.  The  hospitals  of  the  city  being  occupied  by  our  sick 
and  the  few  wounded  amongst  us,  accommodations  had  not  been 
prepared  for  50  great  a  number  of  those  of  the  enemy.  Captain 
Dubuys,  commander  of  all  the  veteran  corps  and  of  the  city  at 
that  period,  represented  to  the  citizens  the  wants  of  those  unfor 
tunate  victims  of  British  ambition,  and  immediately  one  hundred 
and  forty  matresseS,  a  great  number  of  pillows,  with  a  large 
quantity  of  lint  ajid  old  linen  for  dressing  their  wounds,  were 
procured  by  contributions  from  all  quarters,  at  a  moment  when 
such  articles  were  extremely  scarce  in  New  Orleans,  where  not 
a  truss  of  straw  could  be  purchased. 

Until  the  hospital  dire.ctors  could  establish  an  hospital  for 
those  wounded  men,  whose  number  amounted  to  nearly  four 
hundred,  all  kinds  of  refreshments  and  every  attendance  that 
their  situation  required,  were  liberally  provided  for  them  by  a 
number  of  citizens.  Several  women  of  colour  offered  their 
services,  and  were  employed  in  tending  them,  without  any  com 
pensation  Ini*  the  pleasure  of  relieving  ^uffVrim*  humanity. 

.A  a 


178  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

On  the  9tb,  by  break  of  day,  the  artillery  again 
began  to  fire  at  intervals,  which  greatly  annoyed  the 
enemy,  who  about  ten  o'clock  sent  out  another  flag 
of  truce.  The  letter  addressed  to  general  Jackson, 
signed  "  Lambert"  but  without  mentioning  that  he 
who  bore  that  name  was  now  commander- in-chief  of 
the  British  forces;  an  avowal  which  he  wished  to 
avoid,  to  conceal  from  us,  as  long  as  possible,  the 
death  of  general  Packenham,  of  which  we  were  in 
formed  on  the  evening  of  the  8th.  General  Jackson 
replied,  that  he  was  ready  to  treat  with  the  comman 
der- in -chief  of  the  British  army,  and  that  it  was  to 
him  matter  of  surprise  that  the  letter  he  had  received 
was  not  directly  from  him.  On  this,  general  Lam 
bert  could  not  decline  answering  that  he  was  com- 
mander-in- chief;  and  then  general  Jackson  granted 
the  suspension  of  arms  required.  The  bodies  of  all 
the  British  who  had  died  on  our  side,  were  delivered 
to  the  enemy,  on  the  advanced  line  of  our  posts  and 
his;  they  were  received  by  British  officers  and  buried. 
On  beholding  the  remains  of  the  three  officers  killed 
on  the  redoubt,  and  particularly  those  of  colonel  Re- 
nee,  the  British  soldiers  could  not  forbear  to  manifest 
strong  emotions  of  admiration  and  grief,  paying  the 
tribute  of  their  tears  to  the  brave  man  whom  they 
perhaps  had  often  followed  in  the  road  to  glory,  to  a 
father  (for  so  they  called  him)  who  probably  had  of 
ten  relieved  their  wants.  He  must  have  been  an  offi 
cer  of  no  common  merit,  whose  death  excited  such 
regretl  If  he  did  not  live  long  enough  to  acquire 
great  renown  in  arms,  if  the  thread  of  his  life  was  se 
vered  before  he  had  time  to  run  a  glorious  career,  at 


\ 
HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  179 

least  all  of  him  is  not  inclosed  in  the  tomb;  his  me 
mory  survives  in  the  grateful  hearts  of  those  who  ex 
perienced  his  benevolence. 

On  the  10th  and  1 1th  nothing  occurred  worthy 
of  remark.  Our  troops  on  the  right  bank  re-occu 
pied  their  former  position  on  Jourdan's  plantation, 
where  the  engineer  Lafon  commenced  a  line  of  de 
fence,  which  may  be  seen  on  the  map,  plate  No.  5. 
In  the  night  of  the  llth  there  was  heard  the  report 
of  a  very  brisk  cannonade,  which  was  thought  to 
come  from  fort  St.  Philip  at  Plaquemine,  and  the 
next  evening  we  learned  that  the  enemy  was  bom 
barding  that  fort.  Our  artillery  continued  to  annoy 
the  enemy  to  such  a  degree,  that  the  deserters  report 
ed  that  the  troops  had  no  rest,  and  that  all  the  out-posts 
had  been  doubled,  as  an  attack  was  apprehended. 
On  the  12th,  fifty  prisoners  were  brought  in  from 
Chef-Menteur.  We  every  day  continued  to  cannon 
ade  the  enemy;  the  balls  of  our  heavy  pieces,  as  also 
of  our  shells,  fell  in  his  very  camp,  and  greatly  an 
noyed  the  men. 

Several  officers  on  our  lines,  who  had  long  fol 
lowed  the  military  profession,  perceived  on  the  15th 
some  movements  in  the  enemy's  camp,  which  they 
thought  indicated  a  retreat,  and  about  the  same  time 
a  deserter  assured  us  that  a  retreat  would  shortly  take 
place. 

On  the  17th  of  January,  in  consequence  of  pro 
posals  made  by  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson, 
the  latter  appointed  his  aid-de-camp,  colonel  Edward 
Livingston,  to  corffer  with  major  Smith,  military  se 
cretary  to  general  Lambert,  between  the  lines  of  the 


18,0  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

out-posts,  for  the  purpose  of  drawing  up  a  cartel  of 
prisoners;  and  these  officers  concluded  upon  one 
which  was  mutually  approved  of  by  the  commander- 
in-chief  of  each  army.  (See  that  document,  Appen 
dix,  No.  31.) 

Next  day,  towards  noon,  conformably  to  the  arti 
cles  of  the  cartel,  the  enemy  delivered  to  us,  on  the  line, 
sixty -three  of  our  prisoners;  the  greater  part  of  whom 
had  been  taken  in  the  affair  of  the  23d  of  December. 
A  guard  of  honour,  composed  of  a  detachment  of  the 
company  of  carabineers,  of  Plauche's  battalion,  com 
manded  by  captain  Roche,  with  a  detachment  of  cap 
tain  Beale's  riflemen,  preceded  by  the  music  of  the 
battalion,  went  to  receive  and  escort  them  into  camp. 
Several  of  them  were  not  yet  out  of  danger  from 
their  wounds.  Their  return  to  their  friends  and  ac 
quaintances  was  the  more  grateful  to  all,  as,  until  that 
moment,  it  was  feared  that  many  of  them  were  among 
the  dead. 

IT  recurred  to  Dr.  R.  Morrell  and  Mr.  S.  Shields, 
on  their  return  from  the  British  fleet,  that  a  few  well- 
armed  boats  could  annoy  the  enemy  on  Lake  Borgnc. 
This  suggestion  was  made  to  commodore  Patterson 
on  the  morning  of  the  15th  January,  the  period  of 
their  arrival  in  town.  The  commodore,  after  various 
inquiries  concerning  the  description  and  force  of  the 
boats  employed  by  the  enemy  on  the  lake,  authorized 
those  gentlemen,  to  obtain  volunteers  for  the  expedi 
tion.*  On  the  19th  they  proceeded  from  the  bayou 

*  I  preserve  in  this  narrative  the  form-  and  nearly  the  words 
of  the  journal  communicated  to  me  by  Dr.  Morrell. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  181 

St.  John  in  four  boats  (one  of  which  carried  a  twelve 
pound  carronade,  the  others  being  small)  and  thirty- 
four  men,  officers  included.  Next  morning  they 
were  joined  at  fort  Petites  Coquilles  by  two  small 
boats  and  nineteen  men  from  captain  Newman's 
command.  This  day  they  remained  at  the  fort 
to  fit  masts  and  sails  to  the  boats,  and  to  dis 
tribute  the  men  among  the  boats  so  as  to  give 
to  each  a  few  sailors;  for  it  must  be  recollected 
the  greater  part  of  their  number  were  soldiers 
and  along-shore  men.  On  the  morning  of  the 
20th  they  proceeded  to  pass  Chef-Menteur,  and  ar 
rived  at  the  militia  camp,  situate  about  three  miles 
from  lake  Borgne,  at  2  P.  M.  Here  they  recon 
noitred  the  enemy's  boats,  passing  and  re-passing 
from  their  army  to  their  fleet.  At  9  P.  M.  they  got 
under  weigh  with  muffled  oars:  at  10  were  in  the 
lake,  and  took  a  course  along  the  land  towards  the 
Rigolets.  At  about  11  P.  M.  a  large  boat  was  dis 
covered  at  anchor;  immediately  all  hands  pulled  up 
to  her  as  fast  as  possible.  She  was  boarded  on  the 
bow,  stern  and  centre  nearly  at  the  same  moment. 
She  surrendered  after  very  little  resistance;  and  had 
on  board  thirty-eight  dragoons,  a  lieutenant  and  cor 
net,  and  a  master's  mate  and  thirteen  seamen.  All 
returned  to  the  encampment,  where  the  prisoners 
were  delivered  to  captain  Collins,  commanding  offi 
cer.  At  1  A.  M.  another  sortie  was  made,  and  row 
ed  about  the  lake  till  nearly  day-light,  but  nothing 
could  be  found — 21st,  laid  by.  22d,  at  4  A.  M. 
went  out  again,  and  steered  towards  the  Rigolets:  at 
7  A.  M.  they  captured  a  transport  boat;  at  half  past 


182  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

8  captured  a  transport  schooner  of  one  hundred  and 
ten  tons,  bound  to  the  army,  having  only  a  few  casks 
of  rum  on  board,  shaping  her  course  for  the  Rigo- 
lets;   soon  after  captured  two  lanches.     Before  10 
A.  M.  captured  three  more  boats;  and  at  11  reach- 
ed  the  mouth  of  the  Rigolets   with   some   of  the 
small  boats.     When  unfortunately  Mr.  Shields  was 
obliged  to  set  fire  to  the  schooner,  then  about  two 
miles  off  the  Rigolets,  the  bar  of  which  would  not 
permit   her   to   pass.     The  wind  came  out  strong 
against  us,  the  tide  was  also  running  out  rapidly — 
and  in  truth  boats  from  the  schooner  had  hardly 
reached  the  shore,  when  we  perceived  boats  stand 
ing  towards  her  from  all  directions.   The  smoke  and 
blaze  was  very  great.     Our  situation  was  now  very 
alarming,  having  sixty-three  prisoners  and  six  prize- 
boats  to  guard,  with  a  small  force  consisting  of  fifty  - 
three  men,    inclusive,  and  this  unhappily  divided; 
for  the  wind  and  tide  were  so  strong,  that  the  largest 
boat,  carrying  the  only  piece  of  ordnance,  was  barely 
able  to  make  the  eastern  shore  of  the  Rigolets,  where 
as  the  others,  as  well  as  all  the  prizes  except  one, 
were  on  the  western  shore.     The  British  boats,  after 
vainly  attempting  to  board  the  burning  schooner,  ap 
proached  the  shore,  to  ascertain  the  character  of  our 
men.  When  they  discovered  them  to  be  Americans, 
they  sent  three  boats  laden  with  troops,  on  their  way 
from  the  army  to  the  fleet,  to  land  about  a  mile  and 
a  half  above  them.     A  party  of  twenty  men,  led  by 
Dr.  Morrell,  marched  to  fiieet  them,  and  concealed 
themselves  in  the  high  grass,  near  where  the  first  boat 
landed,.     As  soon  as  the  enemy  began  to  land,  a  fire 
•vas  comfi  enred  on  them:  the  men  being  stationed  a 


HISTORICAL    MEMOIR.  183 

few  yards  apart,  presented  the  appearance  of  a  long 
line.  The  enemy  continued  to  land,  but  not  so  ra 
pidly;  a  second  fire  was  given  which  they  instantly 
returned — the  other  boats  came  up,  but  did  not  land. 
Our  men  lired  a  third  round,  and  they  embarked  in 
great  confusion,  and  rowed  oft*.  Our  detachment 
returned  to  the  body  of  our  party,  where  they  arrived 
just  in  time  to  beat  off  three  other  boats  that  came  in, 
apparently  to  cut  out  two  of  the  prizes.  Soon  after 
they  saw  two  boats  standing  for  the  lanch  on  the 
opposite  side,  and  apprehended  she  must  be  taken 
from  the  appearance  of  the  enemy's  boats;  but  hap 
pily  these  fears  were  soon  dispelled — sailing-master 
Daily  throwing  three  shot  so  near  them,  that  they 
hauled  off  without  effecting  a  landing. 

It  was  now  nearly  4  P.  M. — our  men  much  fa 
tigued,  the  prisoners  troublesome,  the  wind  and  cur 
rent  so  strong  as  to  make  it  impossible  to  get  through 
the  Rigolets,  and  a  gun-boat  could  be  seen  beating  up 
for  the  expedition.  It  was  determined  that  Dr.  Mor- 
reil  should  go  to  fort  Petites  Coquilles  (nine  miles  off) 
for  a  re-enforcement.  Accordingly,  he  proceeded  in 
a  well-manned  gig,  and  at  9  P.  M.  he  reached  the 
fort.  Captain  Newman  promptly  granted  his  request, 
and  immediately  embarked  forty  of  his  men;  but  be 
fore  they  could  arrive,  Mr.  Shields  thought  proper  to 
discharge,  on  parole,*  all  the  prisoners  on  the  west 
ern  side.  With  the  greatest  exertion  he  was  able  to 
join  the  lanch  on  the  other  side  and  reach  the  fort 
next  day  at  2  o'clock,  where  twenty-one  prisoners 
were  delivered  to  captain  Newman. 

*  The  enemy  refused  to  consider  this  parole  as  valid. 


184  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

ON  the  morning  of  the  19th,  it  was  perceived  that 
the  enemy  had  evacuated,  not  a  single  man  appearing. 
The  commander- in- chief  had  already  given  orders  to 
an  officer  to  go  out  with  a  reconnoitring  party,  in  or 
der  to  ascertain  whether  the  apparent  evacuation  were 
not  a  stratagem,  when  a  doctor  belonging  to  the  Bri 
tish  army  arrived  at  our  lines,  with  a  letter  from  ge 
neral  Lambert,  informing  general  Jackson  that  the 
army  under  his  command  had  evacuated  its  position 
on  the  Mississippi,  and  had,  for  the  present,  relin 
quished  every  undertaking  against  New  Orleans  and 
its  vicinity.  General  Lambert  recommended  to  the 
humanity  and  generosity  of  general  Jackson,  eighty 
wounded  men,  of  whom  three  were  officers,  whom  he 
was  obliged  to  leave  behind,  as  their  wounds  did  not 
admit  of  their  being  removed.  One  of  these  officers, 
lieutenant  Darcy,  had  had  his  two  legs  carried  off  by 
a  shell,  at  the  moment  when,  after  having  been  on 
guard  for  several  days  successively,  while,  as  we  have 
observed,  the  enemy  hourly  apprehended  an  attack, 
he  was  taking  some  repose,  stretched  on  the  ground, 
at  the  entrance  of  his  bivouac. 

Doctor  Kerr,  surgeon -general  of  our  army,  was 
immediately  sent  with  the  British  doctor  to  Jumon- 
ville's  plantation,  where  was  the  principal  hospital  of 
the  British  army,  to  visit  the  wounded,  and  make 
suitable  arrangements  for  their  accommodation. 

Shortly  after,  general  Jackson  ordered  colonel 
Hinds,  commanding  the  cavalry,  to  repair  with  all 
speed  to  Villere's  canal,  and  proceed  along  it  as  far 
as  possible,  harassing  the  enemy  on  his  retreat.  Ma 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  185 

jtor  Lacoste  was  ordered  to  form  a  detachment  of  such 
of  the  native  Louisianians  in  his  battalion  as  were  ex- 
pert  hunters,  to  scour  the  woods  in  the  vicinity  of 
Villere's  canal,  and  pick  up  the  stragglers  of  the 
enemy's  army,  as  also  such  negroes  as  might  have 
escaped  from  them;  for,  as  might  be  expected, 
the  British  had  carried  off  all  the  negroes  of  the 
plantations  occupied  by  their  troops. 

General  Jackson,  accompanied  by  the  officers  of 
his  staff,  went  to  view  the  British  camp.  They  had 
left  in  their  different  batteries  fourteen  pieces  of  can 
non  and  carronades,  the  former  spiked,  or  with  a 
trunnion  broken  off,  and  the  latter  with  their  pom- 
millions  also  broken  off,  so  as  to  be  no  longer  service 
able,  and  also  a  quantity  of  cannon  balls.  The  general 
next  proceeded  to  visit  the  wounded  officers,  whom 
he  assured  that  they  should  receive  every  kind  of 
assistance  and  attention  that  could  tend  to  promote 
their  cure.  A  few  days  after,  all  the  wounded  were 
conveyed  in  the  steam -boat  to  New  Orleans,  where 
they  were  attended  by  the  three  surgeons  who  had 
been  left  by  general  Lambert  for  that  purpose.  All 
the  buildings,  as  also  the  ground,  of  Chalmette's, 
Bienvenu's,  and  Laronde's  plantations,  attested  that 
our  artillery  must  have  been  very  destructive  to  the 
enemy.  Chalmette's  sugar-house,  and  the  dwelling? 
house  of  Bienvenu,  were  perforated  in  numerous 
places,  by  the  balls  of  the  marine  battery  on  'the  right 
bank. 

Colonel  Laronde,  accompanied  by  colonel  Kem- 
per,  and  a  detachment  of  major  Hinds's  cavalry,  went 
in  pursuit  of  the  enemy  through  the  prairie.  They 

*  B  b 


18«6  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

took  four  prisoners  beyond  the  redoubt  erected  at  the 
forks  of  bayou  Mazant  and  Villere's  canal,  and  ad 
vanced  within  a  mile  of  the  forks  of  bayou  Bienvenu, 
where,  concluding  from  the  confused  sound  of  voices 
they  heard,  that  the  enemy  must  be  very  numerous, 
and  that  it  would  be  imprudent  to  advance  any  far- 
ther,  they  returned  and  made  their  report  to  general 
Jackson. 

It  appears  that,  immediately  after  the  affair  of 
the  8th  of  January,  the  enemy  had  determined  to 
evacuate,  and  that  he  was  desirous  of  proceed 
ing  as  far  as  possible  by  land.  For  that  purpose 
he  threw  bridges  over  all  the  small  bayous  and 
streams  that  fall  into  bayou  Mazant  by  the  right 
bank,  and  at  the  confluence  of  bayou  Jumonville 
he  had  constructed  a  bridge  of  boats.  The  route 
still  continued  on  the  right  bank,  as  far  as  the 
confluence  of  the  bayous  Mazant  and  Bienvenu. 
where  another  bridge  of  boats  transferred  it  to  the 
opposite  bank,  along  which  it  continued  as  far  as  the 
beginning  of  a  long  elbow,  where  it  took  a  direction 
in  a  straight  line  across  the  prairie,  to  the  Catalonian 
village.  (See  plate  No.  5.) 

At  the  confluence  of  bayou  Jumonville,  on  the 
right,  the  enemy  in  his  retreat  had  thrown  up  an 
epaulement  to  cover  the  passage;  the  same  had  been 
done  at  the  confluence  of  the  bayous  Bienvenu  and 
MazanTr  and  at  the  Catalonian  village  he  had  com 
menced  a  large  inclosure,  capable  of  containing  one 
thousand  men,  but  had  left  it  unfinishedr 

General  Jackson  received  from  major  Overton, 
commanding  at  fort  St.  Philip,  a  letter  dated  the 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  18*7 

18th  in  the  morning,  announcing  to  him  that  the  ene 
my  had  discontinued  to  throw  shells  into  the  fbrt, 
and  that  his  vessels  had  descended  the  river  before 
day.  General  Jackson  wrote  on  the  same  day  to  the 
secretary  of  war,  informing  him  of  the  double  retreat 
of  the  enemy.  (See  Appendix,  No.  32.) 

So  early  as  the  17th,  general  Jackson  had  given 
to  governor  Clai borne  the  command  on  the  right 
bank,  and  had  ordered  general  Morgan  to  prepare  to 
advance  with  six  hundred  men,  in  order  to  harass  the 
enemy  on  his  retreat,  which  was  not  then  expected  to 
berso  prompt  and  clandestine. 

The  general  requested  the  reverend  abbe  Du- 
bourg,  apostolical  prefect  for  the  state  of  Louisiana, 
to  appoint  a  day  of  public  prayer  and  thanksgiving, 
for  the  signal  favour  it  had  pleased  the  Supreme  Being 
to  show  to  our  country,  in  delivering  it  from  its  ene 
mies.  (See  the  general's  letter,  No.  33.) 

We  will  now  proceed  to  the  relation  of  the  bom 
bardment  of  fort  St.  Philip  by  the  British;  but  it 
seems  proper  that  it  be  preceded  by  a  short  descrip 
tion  of  the  fort,  and  of  the  means  that  had  been  taken 
to  put  it  in  the  best  possible  state  of  defence. 

BOMBARDMENT  OF  FORT  ST.  PHILIP, 

AT  PLdQUEMIJVES. 

FORT  ST.  PHILIP  is  an  irregular  work,  the, body 
a  parallelogram.  Approaches  to  it  are  nearly  imprac 
ticable,  being  surrounded  by  an  impassable  morass, 
a  ditch,  and  in  addition  on  the  east  by  the  bayou 
Mardi-Gras,  forty-five  yards  wide.  In  the  fort  were 
mounted  twenty-nine  twenty-four-pounders,  a  thir- 


IBS  HISTORICAL  MEMOIi!. 

teen-inch  mortar,  an  eight  and  five-and-half-inch 
howitzer  and  a  six -pounder,  and  in  the  covert- way 
two  thirty- two  pounders,  mounted  on  a  level  with 
the  water. 

During  the  summer  of  1814,  every  effort  was 
made  by  the  garrison  of  fort  St.  Philip,  consisting  of 
two  incomplete  companies  of  artillery,  to  place  that 
post  in  the  state  of  defence  corresponding  with  its 
importance  as  the  key  of  Louisiana,  commanding  the 
pass  of  the  Mississippi.  In  October,  the  cannon  ha 
ving  been  remounted,  the  gun-carriages  repaired,  a 
signal  station  established  three  miles  below  the  fort, 
alterations  made  in  some  of  the  batteries  so  as  to  af 
ford  security  to  the  artillerists  in  case  of  an  attack, 
and  additional  works  erected  to  protect  the  rear  of  the 
fort,  and  the  season  approaching  when  an  attack  from 
the  enemy  might  be  expected,  it  was  suggested  that 
if  a  battery  was  placed  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  ri 
ver,  thirty-two-pounders  mounted  in  the  covert- way, 
and  a  thirteen^inch  mortar  fixed  in  the  fort,  the  de 
fence  of  the  pass  would  be  then  complete,  supposing1 
the  old  buildings  destroyed,  and  the  requisite  num 
ber  of  troops,  and  quantity  of  ordnance  stores,  &c.  &cc, 
to  be  furnished. 

In  the  month  of  November,  a  company  o,f  infan 
try  re-enforced  the  garrison,  and  about  the  last  of  that 
month  the  inspector-general  descended  the  river  to 
the  Balize,  and  caused  a  guard  to  be  stationed  there. 
Early  in  December,  general  Jackson  visited  the 
fort,  and  ordered  the  battery  on  the  opposite  side  of 
the  river  to  be  immediately  commenced,  and  that  the 
thirty-two  pounders  and  thirteen- inch  mortar  should 
be  mounted  as  before  mentioned. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  189 

The  mouth  of  the  river  was  now  more  closely 
blockaded  than  before,  and  the  guard  stationed  at  the 
Balize  was  surprised  and  taken  by  the  boats  of  the 
Herald  sloop  of  war.  The  British  at  this  time  daily 
landed  at  the  Balize,  at  which  place  a  few  of  our 
pilots  still  remained.  A  re-enforcement  arrived  at 
the  garrison  of  another  company  of  the  7th  infantry, 
and  a  company  of  volunteer  free  men  of  colour. 

About  the  15th  December,  major  Overton  of  the 
rifle  corps  was  placed  in  command  ,  captain  Woll- 
stonecraft,  of  the  artillery,  who  had  charge  of  the  post 
since  the  month  of  May,  being  ordered  to  New  Or 
leans.  On  the  17th,  the  arrival  of  the  enemy  in  our 
waters  was  ascertained,  and  a  few  days  afterwards  the 
fate  of  the  gun-boats  was  known.  From  the  23d  every 
effort  was  made  to  repel  the  attack  which  it  was  sup 
posed  would  shortly  be  made.  The  interior  was 
disencumbered  of  the  rubbish  of  the  barracks  which 
had  been  torn  down,  the  main  magazine  was  disguis 
ed  and  secured  by  a  covering  of  timber  and  earth, 
small  magazines  were  erected,  and  covers  made  for 
the  troops,  as  a  security  from  the  fragments  of  shells, 
should  a  bombardment  take  place,  and  the  garrison 
were  constantly  on  fatigue  (under  charge  of  captain 
W  oilstone  craft,  who  had  been  ordered  back  from 
New  Orleans,)  for  the  above  purpose,  and  in  mount 
ing  the  thirty-two-pounders  in  the  covert-way,  and 
the  thirteen-inch  mortar  on  the  Spanish  bastion,  un 
til  the  3d  of  January.  The  24th  December,  cap 
tain  Lagan's  company  arrived.  The  battery  on  the 
opposite  side,  which  was  commenced  on  the  15th 
December,  progressed  but  slowly,  as  many  of  the 


190  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

carpenters,  negroes,  and  the  superintendant  of  artifi 
cers,  had  ascended  the  river  on  the  first  notice  of  the 
arrival  of  the  enemy.     The  cannon  intended  for  that 
fort  were  taken  over  the  river  to  fort  St,  Philip  as  a 
place  of  security,  being  useless  in  the  then  unfinish 
ed  state  of  the  works.     The  carpenters  haying  been 
sent  back  from  the  3d  until  the   8th  January,  the 
works  on  the  new  battery  were  carried  on  with  unre- 
mittcd  exertion,  and  when  our  look-out  boat  return 
ed  with  information  on  that  clay  of  the  approach  af  the 
enemy,  but  a  few  days  more  labour  were  required  for 
the  completing  of  the  gun-carriages  and  the  work  it 
self.     On  the  8th  the  gun-boat  No.  65  warped  into 
the  bayou,  and  took  post  so  as  to  flank  the  rear  of  the 
fort.     To  prevent  the  unfinished  battery  on  the  oppo 
site  side,  which  we  were  obliged  to  abandon,  from 
being  of  any  use  to  the  enemy,  every  material  capa 
ble  of  being  removed  was  brought  over  the  river, 
Our  attention  was  solely  occupied  on  our  defence, 
and  we  anxiously  awaited  the  approach  of  the  enemy, 
which  was  announced  to  us  by  signal  on  the  morn 
ing  of  the  9th.  About  12  o'clock  they  hove  in  sight, 
when  the  furnace  for  hot  shot  was  lighted,  and  the 
troops  stationed  at  the  posts  before  assigned  to  them 
in  case  of  such  an  event  taking  place. 

The  signal  station  was  abandoned  about  1  o'clock, 
and,  in  the  hurry  to  escape,  the  guard  omitted  to  fire 
the  buildings  and  lime-kiln,  which  they  had  been  01% 
dered  to  destroy,  and  at  2  o'clock  that  position  was 
occupied  by  the  enemy,  by  a  force  lanjded  from  thejr 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR,.  191 

The  garrison  was  composed   of  the  following 
Companies,  viz. 

Field  and  StaiF,  2 

Captain  Wollstonecraft's  Artillery,  64 

Murray's  Artillery,,  -  50 

Detachment  of  captain  Walsh's  Artillery,        3 

Captain  Broutin's  7th  regt.  Infantry,  -  78 

Waides's  7th  Infantry,  ,  -  85 

Lagan's  Louisiana  Volunteers,  54 

Listeau's  Free  men  of  Colour,  30 

366 

making,  with  the  crew  of  gun-boat  No.  65,  four 
hundred  and  six  effective  men.  A  detachment  of 
lieutenant  Cunningham's  sailors,  under  the  direction 
of  that  officer,  had  charge  of  two  thirty-two-pound 
ers  mounted  in  the  covert-way.  Captain  Walsh 
commanded  the  right  bastion:  the  centre  bastion,  on 
which  ari  eight-inch  howitzer  and  a  thirteen-inch 
mortar  were  mounted,  was  commanded  by  captain 
Wollstonecrait;  and  the  left  battery  was  commanded 
by  captain  Murray.  The  infantry  and  volunteers  not 
attached  to  the  cannon,  were  stationed  in  the  rear  of 
the  curtain,  and  otherwise  posted  under  the  command 
of  captain  Broutin,  so  as  to  be  able  to  support  the 
troops  on  the  batteries,  and  to  act  as  occasion  might 
require.  Captain  Lagau's  two  lieutenants  and  a  party 
of  his  company  of  Louisiana  volunteers  were  attach- 
ed  to  the  artillerists  on  the  centre  and  left  batteries. 
At  3  o'clock  the  enemy  advanced  several  boats  to 
sound  opposite  a  point  about  one  mile  and  a  half 
from  the  fort,  which  had  been  cleared  of  its  timber 


192  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

some  time  before,  by  order  of  the  general.  The 
guns  of  the  left  battery  and  those  of  the  water  batte 
ries  were  opened  on  them,  and  they  retreated.  Ha 
ving  ascertained  the  distance  to  which  our  shot  reach 
ed  their  vessels,  consisting  of  a  sloop  of  war,  a  gun- 
brig,  a  schooner  and  two  bomb-vessels,  they  came  to 
anchor  out  of  the  range  of  our  shot,  at  the  distance 
of  3960  yards;  the  bomb- vessels  formed  broadside  to 
the  fort,  behind  the  point  of  land,  a  little  in  advance 
of  the  men  of  war,  hoisted  their  colours,  and  com 
menced  the  action.  The  first  shell  from  the  enemy 
fell  short,  but  the  next  burst  over  the  interior  of  the 
fort.  All  that  day  and  night  the  firing  continued, 
with  only  short  intervals,  generally  a  shell  every  two 
minutes.  No  injury  was  done  to  the  men  or  works, 
as  the  shells,  from  the  nature  of  the  soil,  sunk  in  the 
ground,  without  bursting,  or  burst  under  the  ground, 
at  so  great  a  depth  as  to  produce  no  other  effect  than 
a  tremulous  motion.  In  the  night  several  boats  ap 
proached  near  t.he  fort,  and  came  so  close  as  to  allow 
us  almost  distinctly  to  hear  their  crews  conversing. 
They  fired  several  rounds  of  grape  and  round-shot 
over  and  into  the  fort.  The  wind  blowing  fair  up 
the  river,  and  in  gusts  during  the  night,  this  approach 
of  the  enemy  was  oniy  considered  as  an  effort  to  di 
vert  our  attention  from  their  vessels,  which  might  at 
tempt  to  pass  under  our  smoke.  Their  attack  was 
therefore  received  in  silence,  and  our  attention  direct 
ed  to  the  vessels  alone.  Finding  we  were  not  to  be 
moved  by  this  stratagem,  the)  retired,  and  during 
the  rest  of  the  night  fi.vd  a  few  ^iieiis  from  their 
boats  stationed  on  both  sides  of  the  river.  On  the 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIll.  193 


10th  the  bombardment  was  continued  with  the 
vivacity  as  on  the  former  day,  except  that  a  cessation 
occurred  of  about  two  hours  at  noon  and  at  sun 
down,  which  respite  was  daily  granted  us  during  the 
remainder  of  the  siege.  Occasionally  on  these  two 
days  a  fire  was  opened  from  the  batteries  of  the  fort, 
but  the  shot  fell  short.  On  the  third  day  of  the  bom 
bardment  several  pieces  of  shells  struck  the  flag-stafF 
and  in  one  instance  nailed  the  halyards  to  the  mast, 
in  another  severed  them  in  the  midst  of  the  fire;  the 
topmast  was  lowered  down,  and  it  took  nearly  an 
hour  to  have  the  flag  replaced  on  the  mast.  This 
was  done  by  a  sailor  who  had  the  courage  to  stand  on 
the  cross-trees,  exposed  as  a  mark;  and  though  the  fire 
from  the  enemy  was  very  brisk  and  well-directed., 
and  several  shells  burst  over  his  head,  he  escaped 
unhurt.  The  evening  of  this  day  the  enemy  direct 
ed  their  fire  with  great  exactness  at  the  contractor's 
store,  supposing  it  to  be  the  main  magazine.  Several 
whole  shells  passed  through  this  building,  and  two 
burst  in  it,  killing  one  man  and  wounding  another; 
but  as  their  spies  had  only  described  the  magazine  in 
the  state  in  which  it  was  a  few  days  before  the  attack 
commenced,  they  were  deceived;  and  by  making 
every  effort  to  lodge  shells  in  the  before  -mentioned 
building,  which  had  the  appearance  of  the  powder- 
magazine  in  its  former  state,  the  magazine  itself  es 
caped,  having  only  been  struck  two  or  three  times  by 
fragments  of  shells. 

At  four  this  evening  the  garrison  opened  an  ani 
mated  fire  for  a  quarter  of  an  hour  on  the  bomb  ves 
sels  from  all  the  guns  that  could  bear  an  them,  but 

c  c 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

apparently  without  any  other  effect  than  deranging 
their  fire;  it  served  however,  to  animate  our  men, 
showed  the  quickness  and  precision  with  which  our 
guns  were  pointed  and  served,  and  gave  a  foretaste 
of  what  might  be  expected  should  the  enemy  attempt 
to  pass  up. 

On  the  12th,  13th  and  14th  the  firing  continued 
with  the  usual  intervals,  doing  comparatively  little 
injury:  the  enemy,  probably  aware  of  the  ineffica- 
cy  of  their  shells  when  discharged  so  as  to  alight 
whole  in  the  interior  of  the  works,  now  arranged 
their  fuses,  so  that  the  shells  burst  in  the  air  over 
the  works,  and  scattered  fragments  therein  in  every 
direction.  The  evening  of  the  14th  a  man  was  kill 
ed  on  the  right  battery,  another  slightly  wounded,  a 
man  on  the  centre  battery  lost  his  leg,  and  several  of 
the  gun-carriages  were  materially  injured;  on  the  right 
and  centre  batteries,  the  thirty-two-pounder  in  the 
covert  way,  in  the  angle  of  the  Spanish  bastion,  was 
struck  five  times,  and  for  upwards  of  an  hour  was 
rendered  unserviceable.  Several  shells  entered  the 
blacksmith's  shop;  one  burst  near  the  main  maga 
zine,  and  another  passed  into  the  ditch  through  the 
magazine  in  the  covert  way. 

This  evening  we  were  employed  in  carrying  into 
the  fort  all  the  timber  that  we  could  collect,  and  in 
forming  covers  between  the  guns,  so  as  effectually 
to  secure  the  men  on  the  batteries  from  the  fragments 
of  shells,  and  to  shelter  them  from  the  rain,  which 
had  fallen,  with  little  intermission,  from  the  com 
mencement  of  the  siege.  This  work  was  finished  on 
the  evening-  of  the  15th,  and  it  is  almost  incredible* 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  195 

that  during-  all  this  time,  though  the  men  were  more 
exposed  than  before,  passing  in  and  out  of  the  fort  in 
parties,  <ifter  materials,  no  one  was  hurt.    At  this 
time  the  interior  of  the  fort  was  nearly  a  pond  of  wa 
ter;  the  tents  stood,  many  of  them,  torn  by  shells,  but 
unoccupied.  The  small  magazines  were  also  strength 
ened,   and  an  additional  quantity  of  earth  thrown  on 
them.     This  evening  several  boats  arrived,  with  am 
munition  from  New  Orleans,  fuses  for  the  thirteen- 
inch  mortars,  Sec.  &c.     The  16th  was  occupied  in 
conveying  the  powder  and  ordnance  stores  from  about 
a  mile  above  the  fort  into  the  magazine;  and  the 
weather  being  fair,   we  were  comparatively  comfort 
able,  and  in  high  spirits,  having  now  the  means  of 
annoying  the  enemy.     On  the  morning  of  the  17th, 
the  fire  from  the  enemy  was  not  as  animated  as  usual,; 
in  the  evening  we  returned  their  fire  from  our  mortar 
with  considerable  effect,  as  far  as  we  were  able  to 
judge,  and  for  several  hours  they  threw  shells  more 
frequently  than  before.    At  night  one  of  cur  shells 
struck    one  of  their   bomb   vessels;    we   distinctly 
heard  the  shock,   and  for  near  five  minutes  the  fire 
from  one  of  the  vessels  was  discontinued.  The  firing 
continued  during  the  night  of  the  17th;  several  shells 
were  lodged  in  the  parapet;  one  burst  passing  through 
the  ditch  into  the  angle  of  the  centre  bastion.     This 
was  the  last  shot  we  received:   a  little  before  day  the 
enemy  got  under  way,  and  at  daylight  we  could  per 
ceive  the  sternmost  vessel  descending  the  river. 

From  three  o'clock  on  the  9th  until  daylight  on 
the  18th  the  bombardment  continued  with  very  little 
intermission.  During  that  time  the  enemy  threw 


196  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

more  than  one  thousand  shells  and  carcases,  expend 
ed  upwards  of  seventy  tons  of  shells,  and  more  than 
twenty  thousand  pounds  of  powder,  besides  small 
shells,  and  round  and  grape-shot  from  their  boats.  Du 
ring  the  whole  of  this  bombardment,  we  lost  no  more 
than  two  men,  one  of  whom  was  killed  on  the  right 
battery,  and  the  other  in  the  contractor's  store.  Our 
wounded  were  two  men  on  the  right,  and  three  on  the 
centre  battery,  one  in  the  store,  and  one  in  the  inte 
rior  of  the  garrison. 

The  troops  were  on  the  battery  nine  days,  five 
days  without  cover;  and  exposed  to  the  rain  and  wea 
ther  which  was  extremely  cold.  They  cannot  be  deni 
ed  praise  for  the  unremitted  exertion  they  made  to  re 
ceive  the  enemy,  the  fatigues  they  underwent  during 
the  bombardment,  which  was  almost  incessant,  and 
the  patience  they  exercised  thus  exposed.  Perhaps  the 
duration  of  the  siege  would  not  have  been  so  long, 
had  the  fuses,  sent  from  the  northward,  been  of  a 
good  quality;  for  several  days  the  mortar,  with  which 
only  there  was  any  probability  of  reaching  the  ene 
my,  was  entirely  or  nearly  useless.  From  the  effect 
produced  after  good  fuses  arrived  (for  there  was  no 
materials  in  the  garrison  to  make  any)  it  may  perhaps 
be  surmised  that  the  enemy's  vessels  would  have 
found  it  unsafe  to  have  remained  for  so  long  a  time 
in  the  station  they  occupied  within  the  range  of  our 
shells. 

From  the  day  the  attack  commenced  until  it  con- 
eluded,  we  were  constantly  employed  in  preparing 
grape  and  canister-shot  from  bar  lead,  making  up- 
fixed  ammunition,  repairing,  gun-carriages,  making 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  197 

implements,  &c.  Sec.  and  we  were,  in  fact,  in  a  much 
better  state  of  defence,  and  better  provided  when  it 
terminated,  than  at  its  commencement. 

After  the  enemy  left  us  we  had  time  to  examine 
the  interior,  and  the  ground  in  the  neighbourhood  oi 
the  fort;  upwards  of  one  hundred  shells  had  fallen  and 
buried  themselves  within  the  fort;  the  surrounding 
buildings,  workshops,  stores,  and  the  hospital,  were 
almost  in  ruins,  and  the  ground  for  half  a  mile 
around,  was  literally  torn  up  in  every  direction.  (See 
Appendix,  No.  34.) 

On  the  20th  of  January  the  general  made  the 
necessary  dispositions  for  the  protection  of  the  most; 
vulnerable  parts  of  the  country,  in  case  the  ene 
my  should  attempt  a  new  attack.  The  2d  regiment 
of  militia  was  ordered  to  encamp  on  Villere's  plan 
tation,  while  a  detachment  of  the  Kentucky  troops 
encamped  on  that  of  Lacoste;  and  on  the  21st,  all  the 
troops  stationed  on  Jackson's  lines,  except  the  7th 
regiment,  which  was  left  to  guard  them,  returned  to 
town. 

Their  arrival  was  a  triumph;  the  non-combatant 
part  of  the  population  of  New  Orleans,  that  is,  the 
aged,  the  infirm,  the  matrons,  daughters  and  children, 
all  went  out  to  meet  their  deliverers,  to  receive  with 
felicitations  the  saviours  of  their  country.  Every 
countenance  was  expressive  of  gratitude — joy  spar 
kled  in  every  feature,  on  beholding  fathers,  brothers, 
husbands,  sons,  who  had  so  recently  saved  the  lives, 
fortunes,  and  honour  of  their  families,  by  repelling  an 
enemy  come  to  conquer  and  subjugate  the  country. 


198  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

Nor  were  the  sensations  of  the  brave  soldiers  less  live 
ly,  on  seeing  themselves  about  to  be  compensated  for 
all  their  sufferings  by  the  enjoyment  of  domestic  felici 
ty.  They  once  more  embraced  the  objects  of  their  ten- 
derest  affections,  were  hailed  by  them  as  their  saviours 
and  deliverers,  and  felt  conscious  that  they  had  deserved 
the  honourable  title.  How  light,  how  trifling,  how  in 
considerable  did  their  past  toils  and  dangers  appear  to 
them  at  this  glorious  moment!  All  was  forgotten,  all 
painful  recollections  gave  way  to  the  most  exquisite 
sensations  of  inexpressible  joy. 

On  the  22d,  general  Jackson  gave  orders  for  erect 
ing  a  strong  battery  at  the  forks  of  the  bayous  Bien- 
venu  and  Mazant.  For  that  purpose,  colonel  La- 
ronde  was  ordered  to  take  the  command  of  two  hun 
dred  Kentuckians  from  camp  Dupre,  where  general 
Thomas's  division  had  been  stationed  some  days  be 
fore,  and  proceed  to  reconnoitre  the  enemy.  Colonel 
Laronde  came  up  with  the  British  advanced-posts  at 
the  forks  of  the  bayous  Jnmonville  and  Mazant, 
where  they  had  thrown  up  intrenchments,  and  had  a 
strong  detachment.  Two  large  barges,  and  four  small 
ones,  were  stationed  opposite  the  intrenchments  in  the 
bayou;  these  barges  fired  twenty  discharges  of  can 
non,  loaded  with  grape-shot,  against  colonel  Laronde's 
detachment,  as  soon  as  it  approached  within  can 
non-shot;  but  without  any  effect-  After  having  recon 
noitred  the  enemy,  finding  it  impossible  to  cross  over 
for  want  of  boats,  bayou  Jumonvillc  being  in  that 
place  sixty  yards  wide,  colonel  Laronde  retired. 

The  J23d  of  January  having  been  appointed  as  a 
day  of  thanksgiving",  for  the  interposition  of  Provi- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  199 

'Jence,  on  which  Te  Deum  was  to  be  sung,  every 
preparation  was  made  to  render  the  festival  worthy 
the  occasion.  A  temporary  triumphal  arch  was  erect 
ed  in  the  middle  of  the  grand  square,   opposite  the 
principal  entrance  of  the  cathedral.    The  different 
uniform  companies  of  Plauche's  battalion  lined  both 
sides  of  the  way,  from  the  entrance  of  the  square 
towards  the  river,  to  the  church.     The  balconies 
and  windows  of  the  city  hall,  the  parsonage  house, 
and  all  the  adjacent  buildings,  were  filled  with  spec 
tators.     The  whole  square,  and  the  streets  leading  to 
it,  were  thronged  with  people.     The  triumphal  arch 
was  supported  by  six  columns.    Amongst  those  on 
the  right  was  a  young  lady  representing  Justice,  and 
on  the  left  another  representing  Liberty.     Under  the 
arch  were  two  young  children,  each  on  a  pedestal, 
holding    a   crown  of    laurel.     From  the   arch,    in 
the  middle   of  the  square  to  the  church,  at  proper 
intervals,  were  ranged  young  ladies,  representing  the 
different  states  and  territories  composing  the  Ameri 
can  union,  all  dressed  in  white,  covered  with  transpa 
rent  veils,  and  wearing  a  silver  star  on  their  fore 
heads.    Each  of  these  young  ladies  held  in  her  right 
hand  a  flag,  inscribed  with  the  name  of  the  state  she 
represented,  and  in  her  left  a  basket  trimmed  with 
blue  ribands,  and  full  of  flowers.    Behind  each  was 
a  shield  suspended  on  a  lance  stuck  in  the  ground, 
inscribed  with  the  name  of  a  state  or  territory.    The 
intervals  had  been  so  calculated,  that  the  shields, 
linked  together  with  verdant  festoons,  occupied  the 
distance  from  the  triumphal  arch  to  the  church. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

General  Jackson,  accompanied  by  the  officers  of 
his  staff,  arrived  at  the  entrance  of  the  square,  where 
he  was  requested  to  proceed  to  the  church  by  the 
walk  prepared  for  him.  As  he  passed  under  the 
arch,  he  received  the  crowns  of  laurel  from  the  two 
children,  and  was  congratulated  in  an  address  spoken 
by  miss  Kerr,  who  represented  the  state  of  Loui 
siana.  The  general  then  proceeded  to  the  church, 
amidst  the  salutations  of  the  young  ladies  representing 
the  different  states,  who  strewed  his  passage  with 
flowers.  At  the  entrance  of  the  church  he  was  receiv 
ed  by  the  abbe  Dubourg,  who  addressed  him  in  a 
speech  suitable  to  the  occasion,  and  conducted  him 
to  a  seat  prepared  for  him  near  the  altar.  Te  Deum 
was  chaunted  with  impressive  solemnity,  and  soon  af 
ter  a  guard  of  honour  attended  the  general  to  his  quar 
ters,  and  in  the  evening  the  town,  with  its  suburbs, 
was  splendidly  illuminated.  (See  the  abbe  Dubourg's 
speech,  and  the  general's  reply,  in  the  Appendix, 
No.  35.) 

Thus,  in  the  space  of  a  little  less  than  one  month, 
was  terminated  a  campaign,  ever  memorable  in  the  an 
nals  of  America.  On  the  23d  of  December  the  enemy 
succeeded  so  far  as  to  take  a  position  on  the  Mississip 
pi,  and  on  the  19th  of  January  he  had  already  disappear 
ed,  leaving  behind  him  the  dead  bodies  of  some  thou 
sands  of  private  soldiers,  and  of  many  officers  of  dis 
tinction,  and  carrying  with  him  the  shame  of  having 
miscarried  in  an  undertaking  so  easy  to  accomplish, 
as  he  at  first  believed;  but,  as  he  was  taught  by  thirty 
day's  experience,  really  too  arduous  to  be  attempted 
with  any  prospect  of  success. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  201 

The  British  troops  found  that,  notwithstanding 
the  appalling  renown  which  they  thought  had  preced 
ed  their  expedition  to  Louisiana,  and  the  striking  ef 
fect  they  expected  would  be  produced  by  the  very  title 
of  heroes  of  Wellington,  which  several  regiments  had 
vauntingly  assumed,  they  could  make  no  impression, 
even  with  a  great  superiority  of  numbers,  on  undisci 
plined  militia,  not  one-fourth  of  whom  had  ever  before 
seen  a  camp,  or  had  any  idea  of  the  art  of  war.  The 
whole  success,  indeed,  of  this  boasted  expedition,  was 
the  occupation  of  a  tongue  of  land,  beyond  which  the 
British  army  never  durst  advance,  and  which  it  left 
drenched  with  its  bravest  blood. 

During  their  stay  on  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi, 
the  British  made  several  excursions  into  the  settle 
ment  of  Terre-aux-Boeufs,  and  even  as  far  as  Mr. 
Benjamin  Morgan's  plantation,  two  miles  below  the 
junction  of  the  road  on  the  Mississippi,  with  that  of 
Terre-aux-Boeufs.  They  carried  off  tlue  cattle  of  all 
the  plantations,  giving  to  the  planters,  in  payment, 
one-half  or  two-thirds  of  their  value,  and  that  seldom 
in  money,  but  generally  in  draughts  on  the  commissa 
ry-general  of  their  army.  The  youngest  son  of  gene 
ral  Villcre,  a  youth  about  the  age  of  fourteen,  had 
been  detained  by  them  on  his  father's  plantation,  from 
their  first  arrival.  On  the  eve  of  their  evacuation, 
which  he  did  not  perceive  till  pretty  late  next  day, 
he  received  in  payment  of  about  eighty  head  of  cattle 
consumed  on  the  plantation,  the  sum  of  five  hundred 
dollars  in  specie,  which  he  returned,  instead  of  three 
tKousand  dollars,  which  was  their  value  at  a  low  price. 
They  also,  as  I  have  already  observed,  carried  off  all 

* 


202  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

the  negroes  of  the  plantations  they  had  occupied. 
There  were  doubtless  some  amongst  these,  who  were 
very  willing  to  follow  them;  but  by  far  the  greater 
part,  particularly  the  women,  were  decoyed,  or  carri 
ed  off  by  force. 

It  is  an  undeniable  fact,  that  during  the  whole 
campaign,  the  negroes  were  employed  by  the  British 
in  working  for  the  army  in  general,  or  as  servants  to 
officers.  I  will  not  speak  of  the  pillage  of  the  differ 
ent  houses  they  occupied,  that  being  an  evil  insepara 
ble  from  the  presence  of  an  army  in  all  countries;  but 
here,  as  in  Virginia,  and  on  the  shores  of  the  Chesa 
peake,  the  conduct  of  the  British  with  respect  to  ne 
groes  cannot  be  palliated.  After  having  repeatedly 
declared  their  intention  to  restore  them  to  their  own 
ers,  on  their  coming  to  claim  them;  after  having 
gained  time  by  specious  pretences,  the  result  was  that 
they  carried  almost  all  the  negroes  off  with  them.  Yet 
those  negroes  were  private  property,  and  without  them 
their  masters  could  not  cultivate  their  plantations. 
Thus,  several  planters  are  ruined  by  the  loss  of  their 
slaves,  taken  from  them  by  the  British,  and  are 
obliged  to  let  their  lands  lie  fallow. 

During  the  night  of  the  25th  of  January,  colonel 
Hinds  with  his  troop  of  horse,  general  Humbert  and 
the  engineer  Latrobe,  went  once  more  to  reconnoitre 
the  enemy's  position,  which  they  found  he  had  not 
changed.  Colonel  Hinds  had  one  man  killed  and 
two  wounded,  by  the  cannon  of  the  enemy;  and  find- 
ing  it  impossible  to  execute,  for  the  present,  the  ob 
ject  he  had  in  view,  which  was  to  erect  a  battery  on 
bayou  Bienvenu,  in  the  place  best  calculated  to  op- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR,  203 

pose  the  enemy,  should  he  be  disposed  to  revisit  the 
Mississippi,  he  returned  with  his  detachment.  Gene 
ral  Jackson,  aware  that  the  enemy  was  still  master  of 
bayou  Bienvenu,  on  which  he  had  fortified  himself,  as 
also  of  lake  Borgne,  which  enabled  him  still  to  attack 
many  parts  of  the  country,  and  it  being  impossible  to 
discover  against  what  quarter  he  might  direct  his 
forces,  had  several  days  before,  ordered  a  redoubt  to 
be  constructed  on  Philippon's  canal,  another  on  Re- 
gio's,  at  Terre-aux-Bocufs,  and  a  third  on  bayou  Bosuf 
at  the  cut  of  lake  Lery,  the  communication  of  which 
with  the  sea,  by  the  river  aux  Chenes,  though  very 
long  and  difficult,  might  still  admit  of  flat  boats.  Lieu 
tenant  Bosquez  of  the  artillery,  had  likewise  been  or 
dered  to  continue  the  construction  of  the  redoubt  be 
gun  on  the  river  of  Chef-Menteur,  at  the  confluence 
of  bayou  Sauvage;  the  number  of  troops  encamped 
on  Lafon's  plantation,  had  been  augmented  with  co 
lonel  Nelson's  regiment  of  volunteers,  from  the  Mis 
sissippi  territory,  four  hundred  and  fifty  men  strong. 
Major  Reynolds  occupied  the  post  of  the  Temple, 
at  Barataria,  and  a  strong  detachment  was  stationed 
down  the  river  la  Fourche,  and  another  post  establish 
ed  at  Tigouyon  could  give  notice  of  the  approach  of 
the  enemy  in  time  to  oppose  his  landing,  which  he  could 
not  attempt,  until  he  had  first  penetrated  into  lake  Pont 
chartrain,  by  forcing  the  passage  of  Chef-Menteur,  or 
that  of  the  Rigolets,  defended  by  the  fort  of  Petites 
Coquilles,  The  troops  were  distributed  agreeably  to 
these  arrangements:  those  of  generals  Coffee  and  Car- 
rol,  had  returned  to  their  encampment  on  Avart'.s 
plantation,  four  miles  above  New  Orleans;  the  Ken- 


204  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR, 

tuckians  were  encamped  on  Dupre's  line;  Plaudits 
battalion,  the  44th  regiment,  and  major  Daquin's  bat 
talion  of  men  of  colour,  had  returned  to  town;  that  of 
major  Lacoste  furnished  detachments  for  Chef- Men  - 
teur;  Jackson's  lines  were  guarded  by  the  7th  regi 
ment;  the  1st  and  2nd  of  militia,  a  detachment  of 
Kentuckians,  and  another  of  the  militia  of  Red  river, 
commanded  by  colonel  Plauche,  occupied  Villere's 
plantation,  and  furnished  a  strong  advanced-guard, 
posted  in  the  place  where  the  enemy  had  thrown  up 
fortifications  when  he  landed  at  the  junction  of  bayou 
Mazant  and  Villere's  canal. 

The  right  bank  was  guarded  by  the  drafted  mi 
litia,  general  Hopkins's  brigade,  ancl  colonel  John 
son's  regiment,  which  had  arrived  from  Rapides  on 
the  14th.  The  levy-en-masse  of  the  militia  had  been 
arriving  by  companies  every  day  from  the  8th  of  the 
month.  Every  thing  was  in  readiness  vigorously  to 
repulse  the  enemy,  on  whatever  point  he  might  make 
an  attempt.  All  the  damaged  arms  had  been  repair 
ed,  and  a  barge  had  arrived  from  Pittsburgh  with 
muskets,  cannon,  and  balls.  Louisiana  had  been  de 
fended  and  saved  with  means  much  inferior  to  those 
of  the  enemy;  and  towards  the  end  of  January  she 
was  in  condition  to  defy  double  the  force  that  had 
at  first  attacked  her. 

About  this  time  the  remaining  prisoners  com 
prised  in  the  cartel,  agreed  to  on  the  18th  of  January, 
who  being  on  board  the  British  fleet  could  not  be 
sooner  returned,  were  delivered  up  at  Petites  Co- 
quilles,  and  arrived  in  town. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  205 

During  the  course  of  the  campaign  the  mayor  of 
New  Orleans,  Mr.  Nicholas  Girod,  and  all  those  em 
ployed  under  him,  manifested  the  greatest  zeal  in  as 
sisting  the  troops  to  repel  the  invaders. 

The  ladies  of  New  Orleans  were  constantly  em 
ployed  in  making  up  clothes  for  the  militia  of  Tennes 
see,  whom  so  long  an  absence  from  their  homes  had 
reduced  to  extreme  want  in  that  particular,  as  most  of 
them  had  served  in  the  campaign  against  the  Creek 
Indians,  and  in  the  expedition  against  Pensacola, 
in  which  they  had  made  many  long  and  difficult 
marches. 

General  Jackson,  in  a  letter  to  the  mayor,  express 
ed  his  sense  of  the  assistance  he  had  received  from 
that  magistrate,  and  the  citizens  of  New  Orleans. 
The  perusal  of  that  letter  cannot  fail  to  interest  the 
reader.  (See  Appendix,  No.  36.) 

By  a  resolution  of  the  2d  of  February  the  legisla^ 
ture  voted  thanks  to  the  troops  of  Tennessee,  Ken 
tucky,  and  the  Mississippi  Territory;  to  their  com 
manders,  generals  Carroll,  Coffee,  Thomas,  and 
Adair,  and  also  to  colonel  Hinds,  for  their  services 
in  the  defence  of  the  state.  Those  of  general  Jackson 
they  thought  proper  to  pass  over  in  silence:  but  that 
silence  produced  a  greater  effect  in  his  favour  in  the 
public  mind  than  the  most  laboured  panegyric  would 
have  done.  It  was  in  vain  to  attempt  to  throw  into 
the  shade  services  so  eminent,  and  so  fresh  in  the  re 
membrance  of  a  grateful  people;  they  were  present  to 
every  imagination,  and,  in  the  language  of  the  Roman 
historian,  shone  with  superior  lustre  for  the  very 
reason  that  they  were  not  displayed.  Prtefulgebant 


206  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

Cassius  ct  Brutus,  eo  ipso  quod  effigies  eorum  non 
visebantur.* 

The  governor,  in  compliance  with  the  assembly's 
resolution,  wrote  a  letter  to  each  of  the  officers  men- 
tioned  in  it,  to  which  they  severally  replied.  (See 
Appendix,  No.  37.)  General  Coffee's  answer  is 
particularly  worthy  of  observation.  At  the  same 
time  that  he  expresses  his  grateful  sense  of  the  high 
value  which  the  legislature  are  pleased  to  set  on  his 
services,  he  cannot  forbear  to  hint  what  it  would  be 
come  them  to  have  done  in  justice  to  the  great  man 
under  whose  guidance  those  laurels  were  earned, 
which  they  had  distributed  with  such  an  unequal 
hand. 

This  act  of  flagrant  injustice  is  attributed  to  the 
discontent  of  some  of  the  leading  members  of  the  le 
gislative  body.  History  will  search  into  their  motives, 
and  hold  up  to  the  animadversion  of  posterity  those 
unworthy  intrigues,  which  produced  an  instance  of 
ingratitude  unparalleled  in  the  annals  of  mankind. 

Let  me  not  be  understood  as  reflecting  on  all  the 
members;  several  of  them  there  are,  who  evinced,  by 
their  conduct,  both  in  the  camp  and  in  the  house, 
that  they  were  proof  against  the  machinations  of  party 
spirit,  and  far  above  being  influenced  by  petty  consi 
derations  of  private  interest.  But  ingratitude  is  sup 
posed  to  be  characteristic  of  republics.  It  is  well 
known  that  the  very  individuals,  who  extolled  with 
enthusiasm,  the  measures  adopted  by  general  Jack 
son,  early  in  the  campaign,  while  the  enemy  was  ho 
vering  on  our  coast,  became  his  malignant  traducers, 

*  Tacit.  Annal.  1.  3. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  207 

when  the  clanger  was  over,  and  they  could  enjoy  the 
fruits  of  hisvforesight  and  energy,  to  which  the  coun 
try  owes  its  safety. 

On  the  4th  of  February,  Col.  Edward  Livingston 
was  sent  by  general  Jackson  with  a  flag  of  truce,  for 
the  purpose  of  negociating  a  cartel  for  the  general  ex 
change  of  prisoners  (those  of  the  navy  not  being  yet 
exchanged)  and  of  endeavouring  at  the  same  time  to 
obtain  the  restitution  of  the  negroes  carried  off  by  the 
British,  at  the  time  of  their  evacuation.  To  under 
stand  this  matter,  it  is  necessary  to  peruse  the  corres 
pondence  that  took  place  on  that  subject,  between 
general  Lambert,  admiral  Cochrane,  and  general  Jack 
son.  (See  Appendix,  No.  38.) 

The  exchange  of  prisoners  was  agreed  on  and  ar 
ranged  to  the  satisfaction  of  both  parties.  As  to  the 
negroes,  general  Lambert  and  admiral  Cochrane  in 
flexibly  adhered  to  the  principle  they  had  laid  down, 
that  they  could  not  be  restored,  without  their  own 
consent.  (See  Appendix,  No.  38.) 

SECOND  ATTACK  OF  FORT  BOWYER. 

THE  British  army  having  entirely  abandoned  the 
banks  of  the  Mississippi,  and  those  of  the  bayou  Bien- 
venu,  proceeded  towards  Mobile  point.  The  officers 
who  commanded  the  expedition  had  conceived  hopes 
of  taking  fort  Bowyer,  situate  at  the  extremity  of 
that  point,  in  an  advantageous  position,  as  I  have  al 
ready  observed,  for  commanding  the  entrance  of  Mo 
bile;  but  incapable,  in  its  present  condition,  of  defend 
ing  the  point,  or  preventing  the  enemy's  becoming 
master  of  the  peninsula. 


208  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

After  having  suffered  such  signal  and  unforeseen 
reverses,  the  honour  of  the  British  arms  seemed  to 
require  that  their  troops  should  achieve  some  exploit 
that  might  compensate,  at  least,  for  what  could  not  be 
retrieved,  and  afford  some  consolation  to  the  wounded 
pride  of  Britain.  Every  disposition,  therefore,  was 
made  that  could  tend  to  insure  the  success  of  an  attack 
on  fort  Bowyer.  The  enemy  had  learned  by  experi 
ence,  in  his  former  attack,  that  that  fort  possessed  on 
the  sea- side  means  of  defence,  which  rendered  it  formi 
dable  to  ships;  and  though  the  naval  force  that  could 
then  be  brought  against  it  was  sufficient  for  its  speedy 
reduction,  it  was  not  improbable  but  the  attempt  would 
cost  the  enemy  the  loss  of  part  of  his  squadron.  He 
therefore  prudently  determined  to  attack  the  fort  by 
land. 

It  has  already  appeared,  from  the  account  of  the 
attack  made  on  it  on  the  15th  of  September,  that  fort 
Bowyer  "was  so  weak  on  the  land-side,  as  to  be  inca 
pable  of  defence  against  any  considerable  force. 

On  the  6th  of  February  the  British  fleet  was 
descried  off  Dauphine  island.  On  the  7th,  at  nine 
o'clock  in  the  morning,  it  separated  into  several  divi 
sions.  Twenty-five  vessels  anchored  about  five  miles 
from  the  fort,  in  a  circular  position,  extending  from 
Dauphine  island  towards  the  peninsula  of  the  Mobile. 
Thirteen  ships  of  the  line,  or  frigates,  came  to  anchor 
about  one  mile  from  the  land,  in  a  line  parallel  with 
the  coast,  and  at  the  distance  of  about  two  miles  and 
a  half  from  the  back  of  the  fort.  In  the  afternoon  se 
veral  barges  were  perceived  on  the  look  out,  near 
Dauphine  island.  They  returned  to  their  several  ships 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  209 

towards  sunset.  A  few  boats  however  still  conti 
nued,  during  that  night,  to  keep  up  an  incessant  conv 
munication  with  the  different  ships  of  the  fleet. 

Early  in  the  morning  of  the  8th  the  enemy  land 
ed  his  troops,  to  the  number  of  five  thousand  men, 
opposite  the  anchoring  ground.     They  encamped  a£ 
nearly  an  equal  distance  from  both  shores  of  the  pe 
ninsula,  which  in  that  part  is  only  about  half  a  mile 
in  breadth.  Their  camp  was  covered,  on  the  side  ad 
joining  the  continent,  by  two  batteries  erected  half  a 
mile  from  the  encampment.     The   battery  on  the 
north  side  (marked  B  on  the  Map,  plate  No.   9.) 
mounted  two  field  pieces,  and  was  protected  by  two 
hundred  men;  the  pieces  were  mounted  behind  a 
simple  parapet,  in  front  of  which  was  a  ditch  that 
communicated  with  a  lagoon,  extending  over  two 
thirds  of  the  breadth  of  the  isthmus.    The  remaining 
.space,  as  far  as  the  shore  of  the  ocean,  was  cut  by  a 
trench,  and  covered  with  an  epaulment,  behind  which 
were  mounted  four  pieces  of  cannon,  (marked  A  on 
the  Map)  and  protected  by  a  detachment  of  three  hun 
dred  men.  By  the  erection  of  these  two  batteries,  fort 
Bowyer  was  completely  cut  off  from  receiving  any 
succours  by  land;  and  even  could  they  have  been 
taken,  it  would  still  have  been  necessary  to  force  the 
camp,  in  order  to  arrive  at  the  fort.    Four  gun- boats, 
which  the  enemy  had  taken  from  us  at  Malheureux 
island,  were  at  anchor  close  to  the  shore,  and  covered 
the  two  extremities  of  the  camp  on  the  side  of  the 
gulf.    On  the  opposite  shore,  within  the  bay,  several 
barges  and  boats  served  to  keep  up  a  constant  com 
munication  with  Dauphine  island,  On  the  east  point 
,        Be 


210  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

of  that  island,  opposite  the  fort,  was  stationed  general 
Kean's  division,  for  the  purpose  of  re-enforcing  the 
principal  camp,  or  of  acting  on  any  other  point,  as  oc 
casion  might  require.  Towards  noon  the  enemy 
caused  a  number  of  riflemen,  and  some  other  detach 
ments,  to  advance  towards  the  fort  to  a  considerable 
distance  from  his  camp.  A  few  discharges  of  cannon 
stopped" their  progress,  and  forced  them  to  seek  shel 
ter  behind  sand  hillocks,  or  in  ditches.  Our  riflemen 
fired  on  several  of  the  British  sentinels,  of  whom 
one  was  killed.  About  nine  in  the  evening  a  body  of 
troops  was  seen  advancing  towards  the  fort,  and  was 
likewise  forced  to  retire  by  a  few  discharges  of  our 
cannon. 

On  the  9th,  at  break  of  day,  it  was  discovered 
that  the  enemy  had  begun  to  cut  a  trench  parallel  to 
the  curtain  on  the  north  side;  and  shortly  after  a  brisk 
fire  of  artillery  was  directed  against  his  works,  which 
he  had  already  advanced  to  the  length  of  one  hundred 
and  fifty  yards.  The  extremity  of  the  trench  was  per 
pendicular  to  the  shore  of  the  bay,  and  joined  the 
downs,  that  skirted  the  whole  compass  of  the  peninsu 
la,  so  that  the  enemy,  in  following  the  shore  between, 
the  downs  and  the  sea,  had  a  communication  from  his 
camp  to  the  trench,  secure  from  all  danger.  He  had 
stationed  in  the  trench  750  riflemen,  who,  during  the 
whole  time  of  the  siege,  kept  up,  day  and  night,  a 
fire  of  musketry,  directed  chiefly  against  our  artillery 
men,  who  could  not  show  themselves  at  the  em 
brasure  without  being  immediately  assailed  with  a 
shower  of  bullets.  Notwithstanding  the  constant  fire 
from  our  cannon,  the  enemy  succeeded  in  erecting 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

batteries  on  the  sandy  mound  that  commands  the 
fort.     At  noon   some  shells  were  thrown  into  the 
trench,   which  partly  dispersed  the  soldiers  stationed 
there;   after  which  our  riflemen  dislodged  almost  all 
the  others.    Two  ships  now  anchored  between  Mo 
bile  point  and  Dauphine  island,  and  several  boats  full 
of  men  were  passing  and  repassing  the  whole  day 
between  Dauphine  island  and  Navy  cove,  lying  at  the 
distance  of  three  miles  from  the  back  of  fort  Bow- 
yer,  behind  the  British  camp.    About  two  in  the  af 
ternoon  the  enemy  was  employed  in  cutting  down 
and  levelling  the  summit  of  the  great  mound;   a  few 
discharges  from  the  battery  of  the  right  flank  dispers 
ed  them,  and  in  the  course  of  the  afternoon,  the  other 
parties  at  work   were   much   incommoded   by  our 
bombs  and  shells.     Two  barges  having  approached 
the  fort,  were  received  with  several  discharges  of  can 
non,  which  obliged  them  to  return  towards  Dauphine 
island.     The  fire  of  our  artillery  and  musketry  was 
incessant  the  whole  day  until  sunset. 

During  the  10th,  the  enemy  continued  his  works, 
notwithstanding  the  fire  from  the  artillery  of  the  fort. 
His  riflemen  were  also  engaged  with  ours,  while  his 
barges  were  employed  in  transporting  troops  from 
Dauphine  island  to  Navy  cove.  Another  trench  had 
been  commenced  on  the  south  fshore,  at  the  dis 
tance  of  three  hundred  yards,  so  as  to  be  made, 
without  much  difficulty,  to  unite  with  that  on  the 
north  side.  Had  the  siege  been  protracted,  these  two 
trenches  would  have  completely  invested  the  fort. 
On  the  1 1th,  by  break  of  day,  it  was  discovered  that 
during  the  night  the  enejny  had  advanced  his  works 


212  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

to  within  forty  yards  of  the  ditch  of  the  fort,  which 
was  now  completely  hemmed  in  on  its  two  sides  be 
hind.  He  had  also  completed  the  establishment  of 
his  batteries,  erected  at  the  distance  of  from  three 
hundred  yards  to  five  hundred  yards  from  the  fort, 
whose  rear  batteries  began  to  play.  We  hoped  to 
have  dislodged  him  from  the  advantageous  posi 
tion  he  had  taken;  but  after  having  for  some  time  kept 
up  a  very  brisk  fire,  we  found  our  expectations  frus 
trated  by  the  parapets  of  his  batteries,  which  were 
from  fifteen  to  eighteen  feet  thick.  By  this  time  he 
had  mounted  on  his  battery,  eight  howitzers,  two 
mortars,  four  eighteen  pounders,  with  other  pieces 
of  inferior  calibre. 

About  10  o'clock,  a  white  flag  was  seen  flying  on 
the  back  of  the  trench;  it  was  answered  from  the  fort, 
and  a  suspension  of  hostilities  took  place,  Lieutenant- 
colonel  Lawrence  then  received  from  major-general 
Lambert,  a  summons  to  capitulate;  on  which  he  de 
sired  all  the  officers  of  the  garrison  to  repair  to  his 
quarters,  where  he  laid  before  them  the  articles  of 
capitulation  proposed,  and  for  an  answer  to  which  on 
ly  half  an  hour  was  allowed.  That  term  was  indeed 
prol6nged  until  noon;  but  the  enemy  required  the 
surrender  of  the  fort  that  very  evening;  which  article 
being  rejected,  it  was  finally  agreed  that  the  garrison 
should  march  out  next  day  at  noon.  (For  articles  of 
capitulation,  see  Appendix,  No.  39.) 

Next  day,  12th  of  February,  the  garrison  evacu 
ated  the  fort,  agreeably  to  the  capitulation,  and  the 
evacuation  was  completely  effected  by  two  o'clock  in 
the  afternoon.  The  troops  were  embarked  on  board 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  213 

three  ships  of  the  line,  where  the  officers  and  soldiers 
were  treated  with  all  the  civilities  due  to  brave  men, 
forced  to  comply  with  the  resistless  exigency  of  cir 
cumstances. 

The  loss  sustained  by  the  garrison  during  the 
siege,  amounted  only  to  one  man  killed,  and  ten 
wounded,  among  the  latter  was  the  brave  commander. 
The  besiegers  had  about  forty  men  killed  or  wound 
ed. 

From  this  circumstantial  account  of  the  taking  of 
fort  Bowyer,  the  impartial  reader  will  see  that  the 
brave  garrison  who  defended  it,  being  left  to  their 
own  resources,  deprived  of  all  communication,  and 
cut  off  from  all  hope  of  receiving  relief,  exerted  all 
the  means  in  their  power  to  defend  the  fort  intrusted 
to  them;  never  failing  to  annoy  the  enemy,  when  he 
came  within  the  range  of  their  guns.  What  could 
they  do  more?  What  useful  purpose  could  it  have 
answered  to  expose  themselves  to  a  bombardment  in 
a  fort  entirely  constructed  of  timber,  so  combustible 
that  a  single  shell  falling  within  the  parapet,  would 
have  sufficed  to  set  the  whole  fort  on  fire?  Attacked 
on  the  land  side,  what  defence  could  they  make 
against  sixteen  pieces  of  artillery,  within  so  short  a 
distance,  behind  strong  intrenchments,  that  in  less 
than  half  an  hour  would  have  battered  down  the  para 
pets  of  the  fort,  on  that  side  not  more  than  three  feet 
thick,  above  the  platforms? 

As  no  part  of  the  fort  was  bomb  proof,  the  am- 
munition  was  exposed,  nor  could  even  the  wounded 
be  sheltered;  so  that  they  with  the  whole  garrison 
might  have  been  destroyed  by  an  explosion.  The 


214  HISTORICAL 

ground  did  not  here  present  the  advantages  enjoyed 
by  fort  Plaquemine.  A  firm  soil  mixed  with  shells, 
that  resisted  the  pressure  of  cannon  without  platforms, 
not  yielding  to  the  bombs,  dreadful  must  have  been 
the  effects  of  their  explosion;  for  all  military  men  will 
agree  that  without  casemates,  no  garrison  can  hold 
out  against  a  regular  bombardment.  But  it  may  be 
asked,  why  was  no  attempt  made  to  dismount  the 
enemy's  batteries,  as  soon  as  they  were  successively 
erected?  It  has  already  been  seen,  that  nothing  had 
been  neglected  to  that  effect  by  the  garrison,  but  that 
all  their  efforts  were  vain.  Besides,  the  enemy  had 
worked  chiefly  by  night,  and  it  was  also  during  the 
night  that  he  had  mounted  his  artillery.  It  has  been 
seen  that  the  parapets  of  his  batteries  were  from  fif 
teen  to  eighteen  feet  thick,  of  hard  sand,  as  firm  as 
any  kind  of  earth;  and  the  inside  was  formed  of  sacks 
laid  on  one  another.  Could  the  slightest  doubt  still 
remain  on  this  subject,  I  think  it  would  be  sufficient 
to  remove  it,  to  know  that  the  mortars  were  esta 
blished  as  is  usual,  on  the  most  solid  ground.  Seven 
pieces  of  cannon,  of  which  three  were  nine-pounders, 
three  twelves  and  one  twenty-four,  were  all  the  garri 
son  had  to  oppose  to  the  enemy  on  the  side  where  the 
attack  was  directed.  It  may  be  said' that  the  gar 
rison  might,  during  the  night,  have  made  sorties, 
have  carried  the  enemy's  cannon,  and  have  destroyed 
his  works.  All  this  may  indeed  be  effeqted  with 
adequate  forces;  but  this  garrison's  effective  force 
amounted  to  no  more  than  three  hundred  and  twen 
ty  men  fit  for  service.  It  was  surely  impossible  with 
so  small  a  force  to  cross  a  trench  which  already  com- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  215 

mended  the  gate  of  the  fort,  and  was  guarded  by  about 
one  thousand  men,  through  which  our  troops  must 
have  cut  their  way,  before  they  could  arrive  at  batte 
ries  well  manned,  with  powerful  succours  ready  to 
re-enforce  them.  Any  attempt  of  that  kind,  by  a  gar 
rison  of  three  hundred  and  twenty  men,  against  an 
army  of  five  thousand,  which  would  within  a  fewhours 
receive  are-enforcement  of  three  thousand  men,  would 
certainly  have  been  rather  a  culpable  act  of  folly,  than 
a  laudable  instance  of  valour.  The  brave  garrison  of 
fort  Bowyer  did,  upon  the  whole,  their  duty,  and  all 
that  could  have  been  expected  of  them  under  such 
circumstances.  Major-general  Lambert  testified  to 
colonel  Livingston,  then  on  mission  at  his  head 
quarters,  his  warm  approbation  of  the  conduct  of 
colonel  Lawrence,  adding,  that  under  similar  circum 
stances,  he  should  not  think  it  derogatory  to  his  ho 
nour  to  act  as  that  officer  had  done. 

On  the  arrival  of  colonel  Lawrence  at  New  Or 
leans,  it  was  directed  in  general  orders  of  March  25th, 
that  a  court  of  inquiry  should  be  held  for  the  pur 
pose  of  examining  into  his  conduct,  during  the  de 
fence,  and  in  the  surrender  of  fort  Bowyer.  The 
court  having  heard  several  witnesses,  after  mature  de 
liberation,  declared  the  conduct  of  colonel  Lawrence, 
and  that  of  the  garrison  under  his  command,  no  way 
reprehensible.  (See  Appendix,  No.  40.) 

I  have  been  more  minute  in  relating  the  particu 
lars  of  this  affair,  and  have  the  more  freely  given  way 
to  my  own  reflections  on  it,  as  in  the  whole  course  of 
this  glorious  campaign,  the  surrender  of  fort  Bowyer, 
is  the  only  instance  in  which  the  efforts  of  the  enemy 


216  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

obtained  any  advantage.  Whoever  considers  the  dis~ 
proportion  of  the  forces,  and  the  despeiutx-  si-ruction 
of  the  garrison,  left  to  itself,  beyond  the  reach  of  suc 
cours;  whoever  asks  himself  the  question,  whether, 
under  such  circumstances,  he  should  have  acted  differ 
ently,  must  acknowledge  that  the  glory  acquired  in 
this  instance,  by  the  troops  of  his  Britannic  majesty, 
amounts  to  a  very  inconsiderable  advantage. 

The  news  of  the  success  obtained  over  the  enemy 
on  the  8th  of  January,  diffused  the  greatest  joy 
throughout  the  union,  particularly  in  Kentucky,  the 
governor  of  which  state  transmitted  a  message  to  the 
legislature,  recommending  to  them  to  vote  a  levy  of 
ten  thousand  militia,  to  march  to  the  assistance  of 
Louisiana. 

While  colonel  Livingston  was  on  board  the  Bri 
tish  fleet,  the  Brazen  sloop  of  war,  arrived  with  in 
telligence  of  the  preliminaries  of  peace  between  the 
United  States  and  Great  Britain  having  been  signed. 
On  the  10th  of  February,  that  officer  returned  with 
the  gladsome  tidings,  which  was  received  with  univer 
sal  joy. 

On  this  occasion,  general  Jackson  published  an 

address  to  the  army  and  citizens,  exhorting  them  not 
to  let  themselves  be  so  far  led  away  by  the  hopes  of 
peace  founded  on  vague  rumours,  as  to  relax  in  their 
duty;  observing  that,  even  were  it  certain  that  peace 
had  been  concluded,  and  the  treaty  signed  in  Europe, 
it  could  not  be  considered  as  putting  an  end  to  the 
war,  until  ratified  by  the  president  of  the  United 
States.  (See  the  address  in  the  Appendix,  No.  41.) 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  217 

After  the  affair  of  the  8th  of  January,  some  of  our 
men  found  on  the  scene  of  action,  an  elegant  sword, 
which  was  at  first  supposed  merely  to  belong  to  some 
officer;  but  some  prisoners  chancing  to  see  it,  decla 
red  it  to  be  the  sword  of  general  Packenham,  the 
commander-in-chief.  In  this  persuasion  we  were 
confirmed,  by  the  silence  of  the  British  officers  on  that 
subject,  when  general  Keane  caused  application  to  be 
made  to  general  Jackson,  requesting  his  sword  found 
on  the  field,  to  be  restored  to  him,  as  he  set  a  fond 
value  on  it,  being  the  present  of  a  friend.  General 
Jackson  accordingly  gave  the  sword  in  charge  to  co 
lonel  Livingston,  who  went  with  the  flag  of  truce;  and 
the  colonel  in  person  delivered  it  into  the  hands  of 
general  Keane,  who  in  return  wrote  to-general  Jackson 
the  letter  of  thanks  inserted  in  the  Appendix,  No*  42. 

In  his  letter  of  the  17th  of  February,  to  the  secre 
tary  of  war,  general  Jackson  takes  notice  of  this  inci 
dent,  with  several  others,  as  may  be  seen  in  the  Appen 
dix,  No.  43. 

Notwithstanding  the  assertion  of  general  Keane, 
there  are  still  some  individuals  inclined  to  think  that 
that  sword  belonged  to  the  general-in-chief,  from  this 
circumstance,  amongst  others,  that  the  British  officers 
who  happened  to  be  present  at  the  delivery  of  it  to 
general  Keane,  betrayed  some  surprise,  and  appeared 
not  to  have  known  that  he  had  lost  his  sword;  and 
hence  they  infer  that  the  mystery  in  this  affair,  arose 
from  a  persuasion  that,  had  it  been  known  to  us  that 
the  sword  belonged  to  the  commander-in-chief,  it 
would  have  been  retained  as  a  trophy. 

F  f 


218  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

About  this  period,  the  exchange  of  prisoners,  and 
the  claiming  of  the  negroes  carried  off  by  the  British, 
gave  rise  to  a  very  animated  correspondence  between 
general  Jackson,  admiral  Cochrane,  and  general  Lam 
bert.  (See  these  letters  in  the  Appendix,  No.  44.) 

On  the  24th  of  February,  general  Jackson  an 
nounced  to  the  secretary  of  war,  the  surrender  of  fort 
Bowyer.  (See  Appendix,  No.  45.)  The  opinion 
which  the  general  expresses  in  his  letter,  as  to 
the  conduct  of  the  garrison,  was  founded  on  mis 
information;  and  he  afterwards  rendered  justice 
to  those  brave  men,  as  soon  as  he  was  correctly 
informed  of  the  circumstances  which  had  obliged 
them  to  capitulate.  It  has  already  been  seen,  in  the 
account  of  the  second  attack  on  fort  Bowyer,  that 
a  court  martial  honourably  acquitted  colonel  Lau 
rence  and  the  garrison  he  commanded,  declaring  their 
conduct  irreproachable. 

Four  hundred  prisoners  had  set  out  from  New 
Orleans  for  the  Balize,  agreeably  to  the  arrange 
ments  entered  into  by  admiral  Cochrane  with  colonel 
Livingston:  the  remaining  prisoners,  daily  expected 
from  Natchez,  were  to  be  sent  immediately  on  their 
arrival.  Of  this,  the  general  informed  general  Lam 
bert,  by  a  letter  of  the  26th.  (See  Appendix,  No.  46.) 
On  the  6th  of  March,  general  Jackson  informed 
general  Lambert,  that  he  had  reason  to  believe  that 
the  treaty  of  peace  had  been  ratified  by  the  president 
and  senate  of  the  United  States;  but  that,  owing  to 
some  mistake  committed  in  the  postmaster- general's 
office,  the  packet  addressed  to  him  on  that  subject, 
had  not  come  to  his  hands. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  219 

The  British  commanders  having  promised  to  af 
ford  to  the  owners  of  the  negroes  who  had  followed 
them,  every  facility  towards  their  prevailing  on  them 
to  return,  general  Jackson  made  known  to  general 
Lambert,  on  the  7th  of  March,  that  he  had  given  per 
mission  to  a  certain  number  of  the  owners  of  those 
negroes,  to  go  to  the  British  fleet  with  a  flag  of  truce; 
and  his  letter  concludes  with  a  request  to  the  British 
general,  to  restore  the  negroes.  (See  Appendix, 
No.  47.) 

On  the  8th  of  March,  general  orders  were  pub 
lished,  discharging  the  levy  in  mass,  from  all  further 
service.  (See  Appendix,  No.  48.) 

At  length  general  Jackson  received  the  official 
confirmation  of  the  ratification  of  the  treaty  of  peace, 
and  immediately  communicated  the  intelligence  to 
the  commander  of  the  British  forces,  by  a  letter  of 
the  13th  of  March,  which  he  transmitted  by  major 
Woodruff  of  the  3d  regiment  of  infantry,  who  was 
appointed  to  receive  the  restitution  of  fort  Bpwyer, 
and  such  other  posts  and  property  of  the  United 
States,  as  might  be  in  the  possession  of  the  British. 
(See  that  letter  and  major  Woodruff's  instructions  in 
the  Appendix,  No.  49.) 

In  general  orders  of  the  same  day,  the  command 
er- in-chief  announced  to  the  army,  the  ratification  of 
the  treaty  of  peace,  revoking  the  general  orders  rela 
tive  to  martial  law,  ordering  a  final  cessation  of  hos 
tilities  against  Great  Britain,  and  proclaiming  a  gene 
ral  pardon  for  all  military  offences,  and  the  enlargement* 
of  all  persons  confined  for  the  same*  (Sec  Appendix, 
No.  50.) 


220  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

By  general  orders  of  the  following  day,  all  the 
militia  sent  by  the  different  states  to  the  assistance  of 
Louisiana,  as  also  the  militia  of  this  latter  state,  were 
discharged.  (See  Appendix,  No.  51.) 

The  treaty  of  peace  concluded  at  Ghent,  on  the 
14th  of  December,  between  the  plenipotentiaries  of 
the  United  States  and  those  of  Great  Britain,  is  insert 
ed  at  large  in  the  Appendix,  No.  52.  Its  construction 
having  been  a  subject  of  discussion  between  general 
Jackson  and  the  British  commander- in- chief,  I  have 
thought  that  its  insertion  here  would  not  be  consider 
ed  out  of  place. 

I  have  likewise  deemed  proper  to  insert  an  ad 
dress  presented  to  general  Jackson,  by  the  different 
volunteer  companies  composing  Plaudit's  battalion, 
with  the  general's  answer.  The  sentiments  express 
ed  in  these  documents  do  honour  to  those  from  whom 
the}*  proceed.  The  address  was  presented  to  the 
general,  immediately  after  a  review  which  took  place 
on  the  16th  of  March  on  the  lines.  About  to  bid 
Hi  re  well  to  his  brethren  in  arms,  he  wished  once 
more  to  behold  those  brave  men  drawn  up  on  the 
very  ground  that  had  so  often  been  witness  of  their 
valour,  and  of  the  patience  with  which  they  en 
dured  extreme  hardship.  The  time,  the  place,  the 
crowd  of  spectators,  all  conspired  to  present  an  in 
teresting  spectacle,  and  to  awaken  affecting  recol 
lections.  On  that  very  ground  where,  two  months 
before,  those  brave  troops  had  given  such  signal 
proofs  of  courage  and  of  love  for  their  country,  they 
were  nowr  assembled  to  bid  farewell  to  one  another, 
and  seal  with  assurances  of  lasting  attachment  a 
friendship  contracted  in  the  midst  of  alarms.  General 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  221 

Gaines,  who  was  about  to  assume  the  immediate  com 
mand  of  that  part  of  the  district,  commanded  the  evo 
lutions,  which  were  executed  by  the  3d,  the  7th,  and 
the  44th  regiments  of  infantry,  and  by  majorPlauche's 
battalion  of  volunteers.  (See  Appendix,  No.  53.) 

General  Jackson  wrote  to  the  secretary  of  war,  ac 
knowledging  the  receipt  of  his  letter  of  the  16th  of 
the  preceding  month,  by  which  he  had  announced  to 
him  the  ratification  of  the  preliminaries  of  peace,  and 
informing  the  secretary  that  he  had  discharged  all  the 
militia.  (See  the  general's  letter  in  the  Appendix, 
No.  54.) 

Major  Woodruff  having  returned  from  the  mis 
sion  on  which  he  had  been  sent  to  the  commander  of 
the  British  forces,  made  his  report  to  general  Jack 
son,  which  will  be  found  in  the  Appendix,  No.  55. 
It  appears  from  that  report,  that,  as  to  the  long  agi 
tated  question  of  slaves,  the  British  constantly  refused 
to  consider  them  as  personal  property,  and  seemed 
inclined  to  leave  them  at  their  own  disposal.  Hence 
it  follows,  that  they  took  upon  themselves  to  give 
them  their  freedom.  Surely  such  maxims  can  find 
no  support  in  the  law  of  nations.  It  is  evident  from 
the  report,  that  general  Lambert  refused  to  execute 
that  part  of  the  treaty  of  peace  entered  into  by  the 
two  nations,  which  extended  to  the  restitution  of 
slaves,  under  the  general  description  of  property. 
He  pretended  to  construe  it  otherwise,  but  how  could 
a  British  commander-in-chief  take  upon  himself  to 
ex  plain  a  way  the  plain  and  obvious  meaning  of  a  solemn 
treaty? 

The  truth  is,  that  though  a  portion  of  the  negroes 
carried  off,  enjoy  amongst  the  British  a  condition 


222  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

nearly  equivalent  to  freedom,  yet  it  is  well  known 
that  a  great  number  of  them  were  prevailed  upon  to 
enlist  in  their  black  regiments,  and  a  still  greater 
number  were  sent  to  the  island  of  Trinidad  and  New- 
Providence.  Though  the  importation  of  foreign  ne 
groes  into  Jamaica  is  prohibited,  yet  it  is  notorious 
that  they  are  imported  thither  clandestinely;  and  it  has 
been  asserted,  not  without  some  appearance  of  foun 
dation,  that  numbers  of  the  negroes,  carried  off  from 
Georgia  and  Louisiana,  found  their  way  to  that  island 
through  the  means  of  fraudulent  practices. 

In  his  letter  of  the  18th  general  Lambert  uses 
this  pitiful  subterfuge — that  he  considers  the  negroes 
either  as  deserters,  having  come  over  of  their  own 
accord,  or  as  property  taken  and  carried  off  in  the 
course  of  the  war. 

He  observes  that  he  cannot  abandon  to  the  seve 
rity  of  their  masters,  slaves  who  had  come  over  to 
the  army  during  the  existence  of  hostilities,  and  had 
thus  become  criminal  in  the  eye  of  the  law  of  the 
country.  (See  that  letter  in  the  Appendix,  No.  56.) 

This  pretext  is  the  more  specious,  as  it  appears 
to  be  founded  on  a  humane  and  generous  principle. 
But  the  reader  must  know  that  general  Jackson 
had  obtained  from  the  masters  of  the  slaves  their 
word  of  honour,  that  they  would  grant  them  a  full 
and  entire  pardon;  and  that  the  known  honour  of 
those  planters  leaving  him  no  room  to  doubt  of  the 
strict  performance  of  their  promise,  he  had  pledged 
himself  to  general  Lambert  that  the  slaves  should  suf 
fer  no  manner  of  ill  treatment  on  their  return. 

The  importance  cf  the  services  rendered  to  the 
union  by  the  army  under  the  command  of  major- ge 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  223 

neral  Jackson,  in  Louisiana,  was  duly  appreciated  by 
the  whole  people  of  the  United  States,  and  the  sue- 
cesses  obtained  at  New  Orleans  were  celebrated  with 
public  rejoicings  in  every  town.  The  spirit  of  the 
nation  exulted  in  the  glorious  achievement  of  her  de 
fenders.  The  newspapers  were,  for  some  months, 
filled  with  addresses  presented,  and  speeches  deliver 
ed  on  the  occasion.  The  legislatures  of  most  of  the 
states  voted  their  thanks  to  general  Jackson,  and  the 
army  under  his  command,  for  the  service  they  had 
rendered  to  the  union.  Those  votes  have  appear- 
ed  in  so  many  of  the  public  prints,  that  it  is  not 
necessary  to  annex  them  to  this  work.  But  I  have 
thought  proper  to  insert  in  the  Appendix  some  reso 
lutions  of  congress,  relative  to  the  campaign  of  Loui 
siana,  as  being  the  collective  expression  of  the  senti 
ments  of  the  several  states.  (See  Appendix,  No.  57.) 

In  one  of  these  resolutions,  the  congress  tenders 
its  thanks  to  the  army  and  its  general,  and  requests 
the  president  to  cause  a  medal  to  be  struck,  orna 
mented  with  suitable  devices,  commemorative  of  the 
victories  over  the  English,  in  Louisiana,  and  to  pre 
sent  it  to  general  Jackson. 

If  ever,  at  any  important  period,  the  representa 
tives  of  the  people  were  faithful  interpreters  of  the 
public  feeling,  it  was  at  this  moment.  The  nation 
had  already  appreciated  the  services  of  its  defenders, 
and  had  distinctly  expressed  its  sentiments;  the  con 
gress  did  nothing  more  than  give  them  body  and 
shape,  and  convey  them  to  posterity  in  an  authentic 
and  permanent  form. 


224  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

These  resolutions  were  communicated  to  the 
army,  and  received  by  the  different  corps  with  the 
most  lively  emotions  of  joy  and  gratitude.  These 
brave  men  were  about  to  return  to  their  fire- sides  and 
the  objects  of  their  affection.  They  bore  with  them 
a  conviction  highly  flattering  to  freemen — that  of 
having  contributed  to  strengthen  the  independence 
of  their  country,  to  procure  for  it  an  honourable 
peace,  and  to  establish  its  military  glory  on  an  imper 
ishable  basis: — they  had  surpassed  the  expectations 
of  the  nation,  and  this  day  received  its  thanks  through 
its  representatives: — they  could  desire  nothing  more. 

I  have  above  remarked  that  immediately  after  the 
'  departure  of  the  English  troops  from  the  shores  of  the 
Mississippi,  abody  of  Kentucky  militia  was  encamped 
on  the  plantation  of  Dupre,  and  the  remainder  on  the 
right  bank  of  the  river.  Those  from  Tennessee,  un  - 
der  the  orders  of  generals  Carrol  and  Coffee,  resum 
ed  their  former  encampment,  on  the  plantation  of 
Avart.     The  commanding  general  had  thus  wisely 
disposed  them,  that  in  case  of  need  he  might  easily 
transfer  them  to  such  points  of  the  coast  as  the  ene 
my  should  invade.  The  troops  occupied  those  posts 
until  the  disbanding  of  the  army,  which  took  place, 
as  we  have  seen  above,  when  general  Jackson  receiv 
ed  the  ratification  of  the  treaty  of  peace  by  our  go 
vernment:  they  then  took  up  the  line  of  march  for 
their  respective  states.     The  loss  they  had  sustained 
during  the  campaign  was  very  inconsiderable;  and  we 
should  thank  providence  that  our  triumphs  were  achiev 
ed,  at  the  expense  of  so  small  a  portion  of  the  usual 
afflictions  of  war:  yet,  these  undaunted  soldiers,  who 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  225 

were  able  to  overwhelm  the  enemy  with  so  destruc 
tive  a  fire,  and  to  bear  the  incessant  fatigues  of  the 
campaign,  were  obliged  to  pay  a  severe  tribute  to  the 
climate  of  Louisiana.  The  hardships  they  were  obli 
ged  to  undergo,  in  the  duties  of  a  camp,  within  Jack 
son's  lines,  added  to  the  unhealthiness  of  a  constant 
ly  wet  soil,  caused  them  to  contract  pernicious  fevers 
and  dysenteries,  which  soon  became  epidemical.  The 
effect  of  these  disorders  were  speedily  seen  and  ter 
ribly  felt:— in  the  space  of  one  month  five  hundred 
men  perished  in  this  way!  Let  us  drop  a  tear  to  the 
memory  :of  these  noble  fellows!  May  their  virtues 
ever  live  in  our  memory.  They  lived  long  enough 
to  glory  and  their  country,  which  they  freed  from  its 
enemies;  but  they  did  not  live  long  enough  to  receive 
the  recompense  of  their  toils,  to  enjoy,  in  the  midst 
of  domfestic  enjoyments,  that  felicity,  which  they  had 
secured  to  others,  and  had  thus  acquired  a  right  to 
expect  for  themselves. 

After  the  capitulation  of  fort  Bowyer,  the  English 
army  preserved  its  encampments  on  Dauphine  island 
and  at  Mobile  pouit.  General  Lambert  and  admiral 
Cochrane,  waiting  an  official  communication  of  the 
ratification  of  the  treaty  of  peace,  by  the  president 
of  the  United  States,  made  the  necessary  preparations 
for  the  embarkation  of  their  troops:— -but,  the  ex- 
change  of  prisoners,  and  the  difficulty  of  procuring  a 
sufficiency  of  water,  for  a  long  voyage,  occupied  much 
time,  and  rendered  the  embarkation  tedious  and  pain 
ful.  Want  of  provisions  obliged  the  commissaries  of 
the  English  army  to  purchase  them  at  New  Orleans, 
where  they  were  obliged  to  put  them  in  boats,  wht*h 


226  HISTORICAL    MEM  Oil'. 

carried  them  to  the  fleet,  where  they  were  distribu 
ted  among  the  transports. 

These  dispositions  occupied  much  time,  during 
which  the  mortality  among  their  troops,  and  espe 
cially  the  black  regiments  was  very  great.  The 
number  of  sick  and  wounded  in  the  fleet  is  estimated 
at  two  thousand;  but  ft  is  impossible  to  ascertain 
correctly  the  number  of  the  victims  of  disease,  from 
the  19th  of  January  until  the  end  of  March,  the  time 
of  evacuation  by  the  army.  Judging  from  the  num 
ber  of  graves  around  their  camps,  it  certainly  was 
considerable.  We  cannot  but  regret  the  lot  of  these 
unfortunate  victims  of  the  ambition  of  the  British 
government.  Those  poor  creatures,  whose  bodies 
are  entombed  on  the  shores  of  Louisiana,  were  but 
passive  instruments  which  were  broken  in  the  hands 
of  those  who  used  them.  They  died  in  a  foreign 
land,  but  they  have,  doubtless,  left  somewhere  friends 
and  relations  to  whom  they  were  dear;  and  who  will 
never  have  even  the  sad  consolation  of  shedding  a 
mournful  tear  on  their  graves. 

During  the  stay  of  the  English  prisoners  at  New 
Orleans,  a  fact  occurred,  which  I  shall  detail  circum 
stantially,  in  order  to  counteract  the  effect  of  any 
statement  that  may  be  made,  unfavourable  to  the 
American  nation.  General  Jackson,  presuming  that, 
after  their  departure  from  the  waters  of  the  Missis 
sippi,  the  English  would  attempt  to  carry  Mobile, 
and  establish  themselves  on  the  Dauphine  and  Ship 
islands,  made  the  proper  dispositions  to  repel  them. 
Among  other  measures  to  this  end,  he  authorized 
Humbert  to  form  a  legion,  and  permitted  him 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  227 

to  enrol  in  it  all  the  English  deserters  who  were  wil 
ling  to  enter  the  service.  Prudence  requiring  that 
they  should  be  carefully  watched,  it  became  necessa 
ry,  for  want  of  a  proper  place,  to  confine  some  of  them 
among  the  prisoners  of  war.  When  the  hero  of 
Castlebar  issued  a  proclamation,  addressed  princi 
pally  to  the  Irish,  inviting  the  deserters  to  enter  his 
legion,  some  prisoners  of  that  nation  requested  to 
be  also  admitted;  and  unfortunately,  the  officer  charg 
ed  with  the  recruiting  service,  from  ignorance  or 
mistake  enlisted  some  of  them.  General  Jackson,  as 
soon  as  this  circumstance  was  made  known  to  him, 
ordered  that  the  prisoners  should  be  remitted  to 
prison,  with  their  companions,  and  when  an  exchange 
took  place,  they  were,  to  their  great  regret,  delivered 
up  with  the  others.  Fearing,  however,  lest  these 
men.  on  their  arrival,  should  be  severely  punished, 
general  Jackson  interceded  in  their  behalf,  with  ge 
neral  Lambert,  (see  Appendix,  No.  58,)  who  an- 
swered,  that  in  respect  to  him,  the  conduct  of  those 
prisoners  should  not  be  noticed  in  any  manner.  (See 
his  letter,  dated  February  27,  Appendix,  No.  44.) 

The  legislature  of  Louisiana  passed  a  resolution 
expressive  of  their  sense  of  the  good  conduct  of  cer 
tain  individuals,  as  well  as  of  the  patriotic  zeal  dis 
played  by  the  citizens  of  certain  parts  of  the  state,  at 
the  time  of  invasion  by  the  enemy.  (See  Appendix y 
No.  59.)  This  article  needs  no  comment.  It  is  suf 
ficient  for  me  to  recommend  it  to  the  attention  of 
the  reader,  who  will  here  have  occasion  to  remark 
what  I  have,  in  the  course  of  this  work,  had  the  plea 
sure  of  announcing— that,  at  this  memorable  crisis, 


228  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

all  the  inhabitants  of  Louisiana,  without  distinction 
of  birth,  colour,  age,  or  sex,  vied  in  zeal  for  the  ser 
vice  of  their  country,  and  strained  every  nerve  to  re 
pulse  the  enemy.  1  pass  no  encomium  on  the  con 
duct  of  the  people  of  this  state,  while  the  enemy  oc 
cupied  a  portion  of  their  territory.  I  am  convinced 
that  they  attach  to  their  actions  no  merit  but  that  of 
doing  their  duty;  and  that  the  satisfaction  they  deriv 
ed  from  this  source  was  an  ample  reward;  but  these 
citizens  have  been  calumniated;  they  were  consider 
ed,  for  a  long  time,  as  suspicious  members  of  the 
American  family,  and  as  persons  who  could  not  be 
relied  on;  disposed,  in  fact,  to  receive,  if  not  with 
joy,  at  least  with  indifference,  such  other  form  of  go 
vernment  as  the  fate  of  war,  or  the  train  of  political 
events  might  subject  them  to.  It  was  not  by  words, 
that  those  meritorious  citizens  vindicated  their  cha 
racter;  but  by  the  best  proofs  of  devotion  to  their 
country,  by  defending  it  faithfully,  and  by  valiant^ 
ly  repelling  the  invading  enemy.  Their  conduct 
throughout  this  campaign  is  the  most  emphatic  re 
futation  of  the  unjust  charges  ctf  their  calumniators. 

Mention  is  made,  in  this  resolution,  of  the  assist 
ance  received  from  the  council  of  the  city  of  Orleans, 
by  those  families,  whose  principals,  being  employed 
in  the  service  of  their  country  could  not  minister 
to  their  wants.  I  shall  merely  add,  that  more  than 
thirty-four  thousand  rations  of  bread,  and  nearly 
thirteen  thousand  of  meat,  were  distributed,  to  the 
most  necessitous,  in  the  space  of  about  a  month. 

The  artillery  and  engineering  service  received 
very  important  assistance  from  the  officers  of  the 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  229 

mayoralty.  I  have  frequently  witnessed  their  zeal 
in  availing  themselves  of  immediate  resources,  and 
even  creating  new  ones,  to  hasten  the  transportation 
of  materials,  munitions,  and  provisions. 

I  must  be  permitted  to  add  to  the  enumeration 
of  acts  of  zeal  and  devotion,  noticed  in  this  resolu 
tion,  an  example  of  patriotism,  worthy  to  be  com 
pared  with  the  most  brilliant  instances  of  the  same 
kind  recorded  in  ancient  histories.  Madame  De- 
vance  Bienvenu,  a  respectable  widow,  and  rich  inha 
bitant  of  Atakapas,  after  sending  her  four  sons  to  the 
defence  of  their  country,  in  captain  Dubuclay's  com 
pany  of  dragoons,  wrote  to  governor  Claiborne,  that 
she  sincerely  regretted  having  no  other  sons  to  offer 
to  her  country,  but  that,  if  her  own  services,  in  the 
duty  of  taking  care  of  the  wounded,  should  be  thought 
useful,  notwithstanding  her  advanced  age,  and  the 
great  distance  of  her  residence,  she  would  hasten  to 
New  Orleans  for  that  purpose. 

General  Jackson,  in  his  correspondence  with  the 
secretary  at  war,  did  not  fail  to  notice  the  conduct  of 
the  "  corsairs  of  Barataria,"  who  were,  as  we  have 
already  seen,  employed  in  the  artillery  service.  In 
the  course  of  the  campaign  they  proved,  in  an  une 
quivocal  manner,  that  they  had  been  misjudged  by 
the  enemy,  who,  a  short  time  previous  to  the  invasion 
of  Louisiana  had  hoped  to  enlist  them  in  his  cause. 
Many  of  them  were  killed  or  wounded  in  defence 
of  the  country.  Their  zeal,  their  courage,  and  their 
skill,  were  remarked  by  the  whole  army,  who  could 
no  longer  consider  such  brave  men  as  criminals,  or 
avoid  wishing  their  permanent  return  to  duty  and  the 


230  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

favour  of  the  government.  These  favourable  senti 
ments  were  expressed  by  the  legislature  of  the  state, 
in  a  memorial  to  the  president,  and  general  Jackson 
added  his  and  those  of  the  army.  The  chief  magis> 
trate  of  our  government  yielded  to  these  interces 
sions,  and  issued  a  proclamation,  by  which  he  granted 
a  full  and  complete  pardon  to  all  those  who,  having 
formerly  violated  the  laws  of  the  United  States,  by 
smuggling  at  Barataria,  had  aided,  during  the  cam 
paign,  in  repulsing  the  enemy,  and  should  produce 
a  certificate,  to  this  effect,  from  the  governor  of  Loui 
siana.  He  likewise  ordered  a  suspension  of  all  pro* 
ceedings  against  their  persons  and  property,  as  well  as 
the  restitution  of  whatever  might  have  been  sequestrat 
ed.  This  proclamation,  written  in  a  noble  and  dignified 
style,  is  fraught  with  the  true  principles  of  philan 
thropy:  a  perusal  of  it  cannot  fail  to  afford  pleasure. 
(It  will  be  found  in  the  Appendix,  No.  60.) 

On  the  23d  of  December,  1814,  when  the  ene 
my  approached  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi,  near 
the  plantation  of  major-general  Villere,  after  having 
taken  prisoners  the  men  who  composed  the  detach 
ment  sent  to  the  village  of  the  Catalans,  major  Villere, 
his  son,  of  the  third  regiment  of  Louisiana  militia,  had 
the  immediate  command  of  the  post,  formed  at  his 
father's  plantation;  and  it  was  he  who  sent  the  de 
tachment  to  the  village,  two  days  previous  to  the 
arrival  of  the  enemy.  Although  it  is  to  be  regretted, 
that  he  had  not  placed  some  intermediate  posts  be 
tween  this  village  and  the  Mississippi,  which  might 
have  discovered  the  enemy,  and  given  notice  of  his 
approach,  by  the  discharge  of  small  arms  or  rpcketSj 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  231 

we  must,  in  justice  to  major  Villere  affirm,  that  he 
does  not  deserve  the  reproaches  inserted  by  some 
malignant  or  inconsiderate  persons,  in  the  different 
gazettes  of  the  union.  In  his  correspondence  with 
the  secretary  at  war,  general  Jackson  has  borne  tes 
timony  to  the  good  conduct  of  this  officer,  and  the 
legislature,  in  the  resolution,  inserted  in  the  Appen 
dix,  No.  59,  notices  the  presence  of  mind,  the  ad 
dress,  and  the  courage,  which  he  displayed  in  escap 
ing  the  enemy,  in  a  manner,  almost  miraculous,  and 
returned  to  give  intelligence  of  their  approach.  The 
decision  of  the  court-martial  held  to  examine  the  con 
duct  of  major  Villere,  who  produced,  however,  no 
testimony  in  his  own  favour,  will  be  found  in  the 
Appendix,  No.  61. 

If  it  were  not  presumptuous  to  form  a  conjecture 
as  to  the  unfortunate  circumstance  of  the  arrival  of  the 
enemy  on  the  shores  of  the  Mississippi,  unperceived 
by  us,  I  should  be  inclined  to  attribute  it  to  the  capture 
of  our  gun-boats,  by  which  we  were  deprived  of  the 
means  of  following  his  movements,  and  observing  the 
point  to  which  his  attack  was  directed.  If,  as  1  have 
before  remarked,  in  the  narration  of  this  affair,  the 
number  of  our  vessels  on  the  lakes  had  been  propor 
tioned  to  the  extent  of  ceast  we  had  to  defend,  the  com 
mander  of  the  station,  commodore  Patterson,  possess 
ing  an  accurate  knowledge  of  local  circumstances, 
could  have  so  disposed  them,  as  to  give  timely  notice 
of  the  approach  of  the  enemy. 

The  momentary  success  of  the  English,  on  the 
8th  of  January,  on  the  right  bank  of  the  river,  requir 
ed  an  examination  of  the  conduct  of  many  officers  of 


232  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

the  Louisiana  and  of  the  Kentucky  militia  under  the 
command  of  colonel  Davis.  In  my  narrative  of  the 
events  of  that  day,  I  have  endeavoured  to  remove 
unfavourable  impressions,  as  to  these  troops,  as  well 
as  to  free  the  Kentuckians  from  the  charges  advanc 
ed  against  them,  I  take  the  liberty  of  saying,  with 
unjustifiable  precipitation.  If  a  shadow  of  doubt 
remain  in  the  mind  of  the  reader,  on  this  subject,  the 
decision  of  the  court  of  inquiry,  will,  I  think,  re 
move  it  entirely.  (See  Appendix,  No.  62.) 

By  order  of  commodore  Patterson,  a  court  of  in 
quiry  was  convened  at  New  Orleans,  for  the  purpose 
of  hearing  several  testimonies  relative  to  the  conduct 
of  lieutenant  Jones,  comrrianding  the  division  of  gun 
boats,  captured  on  the  14th  December,  by  a  flotilla 
of  English  barges.  The  report  of  this  court,  con 
taining  minute  details  of  the  conduct  of  the  officers, 
and  of  the  crews  of  the  gun-boats,  as  well  as  an  ac 
count  of  the  manner  in  which  the  attack  was  made, 
cannot  fail  to  interest  the  reader.  (See  Appendix, 
No.  63.) 

So  many  various  estimates  have  been  made  of 
the  force  of  the  British  army  which  came  to  Louisi 
ana,  that  it  would  be  very  difficult  to  ascertain  which 
is  the  most  correct;  I  have,-  however,  procured  a 
very  circumstantial  one,  including  the  names  of  the 
different  corps  with  those  of  their  commanders,  and 
the  amount  of  their  respective  force,  which  I  have 
inserted  in  the  Appendix,  No.  64. 

This  document  is  supported  by  a  letter  from  Dr. 
Morrell  of  the  navy,  who,  having  been  detained 
several  weeks  on  board  the  British  fleet,  had  many 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  233 

opportunities  to  converse  with  British  officers,  on 
the  subject  of  the  force  of  their  army.  The  circum 
stances  related  by  Dr.  Morrell  cannot  fail  to  be  inte* 
resting  to  my  readers. 

Under  the  same  number  of  the  Appendix  will 
also  be  found  a  list  of  the  officers,  composing  the 
staff  of  the  British  army  at  the  time  of  its  landing. 

Arrived  at  the  close  of  my  narration  of  the  import 
ant  events  of  the  memorable  campaign  in  Louisiana, 
I  consider  myself  bound,  as  a  faithful  historian,  to  in 
sert  the  official  reports  of  the  commanders  of  the 
British  fleet  and  army  relative  to  the  operations  of 
the  forces  confided  to  their  charge.  These  will  be 
found  at  length  and  in  the  order  of  their  dates,  in  the 
Appendix,  No.  66. 

No.  1  of  these  documents  is  a  despatch  of  admiral 
Cochrane,  addressed  to  the  board  of  admiralty,  in 
England,  dated  on  board  the  Armide,  off  the  Isle  an 
Chat,  16th  December,  1814,  and  accompanied  by 
a  report  of  captain  Lockyer,  relative  to  the  capture 
of  our  gun-boats,  off  Isle  aux  Malheureux,  on  the 
14th  of  the  same  month.  No.  2  is  a  report  of  major- 
general  Keane,  addressed  to  the  commanding  gene 
ral  Packenham,  dated  26th  December,  in  which  he 
mentions  the  disembarkation  of  his  troops  and  their 
arrival  on  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi:  it  contains  also 
an  account  of  the  affair  of  the  23d  December  at  night. 
No.  3  is  an  extract  of  a  journal  kept  by  major  For 
rest,  in  the  quarter-master-generaPs  department,  giv 
ing  a  succinct  account  of  all  the  transactions,  from  the 
arrival  of  general  Packenham,  on  the  banks  of  the  Mis 
sissippi,  on  the  25th  of  December  1814,  until  the  31st 

Hh 


234  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR, 

of  the  same  month.  No.  4  is  a  letter  from  major-ge 
neral  Lambert,  addressed  to  lord  Bathurst,  secretary 
of  state  of  his  Britannic  majesty,  dated  10th  January, 
1815,  giving  an  account  of  the  operations  of  the  En 
glish  army  up  to  this  period,  and  particularly  of  the 
unfortunate  result  of  their  attack  on  our  line  on  the  8th 
of  January.  No.  5  contains  a  report  of  colonel  Thorn 
ton,  commanding  the  expedition  on  the  right  bank 
of  the  river,  dated  January  8,  and  addressed  to  gene 
ral  Packenham  (now  dead)  detailing  the  operations  of 
the  troops  confided  to  his  charge,  on  that  side.  No. 
6  is  a  despatch  of  admiral  Cochrane,  dated  18th  Jan 
uary  1815,  addressed  to  the  admiralty  office,  relating 
principally  to  the  service  of  the  marines  and  sailors 
up  to  this  date.  No.  7  is  a  despatch  of  general  Lam 
bert,  dated  28th  January  1815,  addressed  to  lord 
Bathurst,  in  which  he  sets  forth  the  events  posterior  to 
the  10th  January;  and  No.  8  is  another  despatch 
from  the  same  officer  to  the  same  minister,  dated 
head- quarters,  Isle  Dauphine,  14th  February  1815, 
containing  an  account  of  the  capture  of  fort  Bowyer 
on  Mobile  point. 

The  same  impartiality  which  induces  me  to  in 
sert  these  official  reports  demands  some  observa 
tions  on  the  facts  and  circumstances  comprised  in 
them.  I  shall  follow  the  order  in  which  I  have  placed 
them. 

In  No.  1,  admiral  Cochrane,  giving  an  account  of 
the  capture  of  the  gun -boats,  vaunts  the  valour  and 
skill  of  his  force,  and  augments,  according  to  custom, 
the  difficulties  surmounted.  To  establish  a  fair  scale 
of  comparison  between  the  attack  and  the  defence. 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  23S 

and  to  appreciate  justly  the  respective  merits  of  the 
conquerors  and  the  conquered,  it  will  be  sufficient, 
in  my  opinion,  to  compare  the  disproportion  of  our 
forces  with  the  strength  of  the  enemy. 

Five  gun- boats,  some  of  which  were  planted  in 
the  mud,  and,  of  course,  unable  from  this  circum 
stance,  in  addition  to  that  of  a  strong  current,  to 
change  their  position,  defended  by  one  hundred  and 
eighty-two  men,  were  attacked  by  forty-two  barges 
and  lanches,  some  of  which  were  as  large  as  our 
gun-boats,  (one  of  those,  which  was  sunk,  carrying 
one  hundred  and  eighty  men,)  and  three  gigs; — the 
whole  having  a  complement  of  twelve  hundred  men! 
— Notwithstanding  this  monstrous  disparity  of  force, 
the  Americans  defended  themselves  for  an  hour  and 
a  half,  and  did  not  strike  their  flag  until  they  had 
destroyed  more  than  a  third  of  the  force  of  the  ene 
my,  who  now  occupied  the  decks  of  these  same  ves 
sels,  where  the  victory  had  been  disputed,  blow  for 
blow.     Such  is  the  plain  fact,  which  the  English  ad 
miral  endeavours  to  involve  in  useless  details,  in  or 
der  to  divert  the  attention  from  the  principal  point. 
He  says  also  that  his  barges  advanced  to  the  attack 
with  the  greatest  resolution,  in  defiance  of  our  ves 
sels,  which  he  calls  formidable,  having  the  advantage 
of  a  chosen  position,  &c.     Unfortunately  for  sir  Alex 
ander,  captain  Lockyer,  who  commanded,  and  was 
wounded  in  this  attack,  and  who,  consequently,  must 
have  been  better  acquainted  with  all  that  passed,  ex 
presses  himself  thus,  in  his  letter,  above  mentioned: 
"  Fortunately,  for  the  English  flotilla ,  the  wind  failing 
(the  American  vessels,}  after  a  chase  of  thirty-six 


236  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

hours,  they  were  obliged  to  come  to  off  Isle  St.  Jo 
seph."  In  another  part  of  the  same  letter  he  accords 
perfectly  with  the  report  of  captain  Jones,  as  to  the 
velocity  of  the  current. 

The  admiral  acknowledges  that  the  victory  cost 
them  dear;  and  when  we  consider  the  price,  we  rea 
dily  pardon  some  little  inaccuracies.  He  was  doubt- 
less,  too  much  occupied  with  his  preparations  for 
the  establishment,  at  Orleans,  of  his  judges,  custom 
house  officers,  and  others  brought  over  for  the  pur 
pose  of  extending  the  blessings  of  regular  government 
to  recolonized  Louisiana;  or  in  preparatory  arrange 
ments  for  the  transportation  of  all  the  cotton  and  su 
gar  which  he  expected  in  a  few  minutes  to  possess, 
to  give  to  his  despatch  the  attention  one  would  sup 
pose  it  required.  I  shall  make  but  one  more  remark 
on  this  report.  The  American  sloop  represented  as 
carrying  one  six-pounder  and  two  twelve-pound  car- 
ronades,  and  twenty  men,  had  only  one  four-pounder 
and  eight  men;  and  it  is  a  fact,  that  this  boat,  which 
we  should  suppose,  according  to  the  reports  of  these 
gentlemen,  to  be  of  a  size  capable  of  defending  her 
self  against  an  imposing  force,  was  built  five  years 
previous,  in  the  navy-yard,  at  New  Orleans,  to  serve 
as  a  gig,  for  commodore  Porter,  then  commanding 
on  that  station,  who  caused  her  to  be  transported,  on 
a  wagon,  to  bayou  St.  John,  a  distance  of  two  miles, 
where  she  was  used  for  short  excursions  on  the 
lakes. 

Captain  Lockyer  has  also  made  a  mistake  in  his 
account  of  the  captured  gun-boats.  He  estimates 
the  men  at  two  hundred  and  forty-five,  whereas  their 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  237 

number  was  really  but  one  hundred  and  eighty-two 
effective  men — that  is  to  hay,  the  English  force  was 
to  ours  rather  more  than  six  to  one. 

No.  2  is  the  report  of  general  Keane,  after  the 
affair  of  the  23d  of  December.  It  is  worthy  of  re 
mark,  that  this  paper  is  dated  the  26th,  three  days  af- 
the  battle.  The  general  had  then,  at  least,  two  whole 
days  to  collect  positive  facts,  and  consequently,  time 
to  prepare  an  accurate  report.  Let  us  see  how  far 
he  has  made  his  conformable  to  truth.  He  says, 

"  When  the  men,  much  fatigued  by  the  length  of 
time  they  had  been  in  the  boats,  were  asleep  in  their 
bivouac,  a  heavy  flanking  fire  of  round  and  grape-shot 
ivas  opened  upon  them,  by  a  large  schooner  and  two 
gun-vessels,  which  had  dropped  down  the  river  Jrom 
the  town,  and  anchored  abreast  our  fires,  &V."  As  to 
the  schooner,  the  general  is  literally  correct.  The 
fire  was  very  lively,  and  well  kept  up.  Commodore 
Patterson,  who  was  on  board,  and  captain  Henley, 
who  commanded  the  vessel,  with  his  brave  crew, 
knew  too  well  what  was  due  to  such  distinguished 
guests,  to  fail  in  paying  them  due  honours;  I  hope 
they  do  not  complain  of  this — if  they  do,  they  are 
certainly  much  to  blame;  for,  before  colonel  Thorn 
ton  had  made  those  judicious  dispositions,  of  which  the 
report  speaks,  to  place  his  brigade  in  safety  behind 
the  levee,  more  than  one  hundred  of  his  men  were 
killed  or  wounded  by  the  fire  of  the  Carolina.  But 
what  were  those  gun-vessels  of  which  general  Keane 
speaks?  whence  came  they,  and  who  saw  them? 
There  were,  it  is  true,  at  that  time  on  the  waters  of 
the  Mississippi,  a  great  many  very  large  floating  trees; 


238  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

its  surface  was  sometimes  covered  with  them,  and 
I  can  find  no  other  cause  for  this  mistake  of  the  gene- 
ral,  than  in  some  of  those  drifted  logs,  which,  in  the 
darkness  of  the  night,  he  may  have  taken  for  ves 
sels!  This  is  not  absolutely  impossible; — but  the 
gun- vessels  that  fired  in  company  with  the  schooner! 
—it  is  indeed  too  much.  The  reader  must  be  struck 
with  the  similarity  that  there  is  between  this  little 
affair  and  the  celebrated  battle  of  the  kegs  at  Philadel 
phia  during  the  revolutionary  war!  If  general  Keane's 
optic  nerves  were  so  affected  on  this  memorable 
night  of  the  attack  of  the  schooner  and  two  gun- boats, 
the  reader  may  well  expect  to  find  his  sense  of  hear 
ing  more  acute,  for  it  is  said  that  nature  always  turns 
the  loss  of  one  sense  to  the  profit  of  the  others.  It  ap 
pears,  however,  from  the  report  of  the  general,  that 
he  was,  at  this  time,  as  unfortunate  in  his  hearing,  as 
we  have  just  shown  him  to  have  been  in  his  sight. 
He  says,  that,  "the  enemy,  favoured  by  the  darkness  of 
the  night,  concealed  themselves  under  a  high  fence,  and 
calling  to  his  men,  under  the  pretence  of  being  apart  of 
their  own  force,  offered  to  assist  them  in  getting  over" 
Sec.  The  general  or  some  of  his  officers,  certainly 
dreamt  this;  for  I  can  affirm  that  no  such  thing  oc 
curred.  The  only  circumstance  which  bore  the 
least  particle  of  resemblance  to  this  romance,  is  that 
which  I  am  about  to  relate.  I  leave  the  reader  to 
trace  the  similitude,  and  draw  his  inference. 

It  has  been  seen,  in  the  narration  of  the  affair  of 
the  23d  December,  that  colonel  Piatt,  quarter- master- 
general,  advanced  at  the  head  of  a  detachment  of  the 
7th  regiment,  towards  the  enemy,  for  the  purpose  of 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

reconnoitring  and  repulsing  him. — On  reaching  the 
boundary  lines  of  Laronde's  and Lacoste's  plantations, 
the  detachment  was  saluted  by  a  discharge  of  mus 
ketry,  from  an  advanced- guard  of  the  enemy,  which 
had  not  yet  been  discovered,  although  at  a  very  short 
distance;  this  was  owing  to  the  soldiers  being  placed 
behind  the  fence,  along  both  sides  of  the  road,  with 
one  knee  on  the  ground,  and  in  this  position  they 
fired.  The  colonel  advanced  towards  them,  at  a  full 
gallop,  and  called  to  them  to  turn  out  and  fight  like 
brave  men,  instead  of  firing  crouched  on  the  ground 
like  cowardly  Indians.  This  is  the  only  occurrence 
which  has  any  relation  to  a  fence.  If  this  be  the 
origin  of  the  story  given  us  by  the  general,  he  de 
serves  great  credit,  for  his  admirable  talent  in  dress 
ing  up  a  report. — But  let  us  proceed.  The  general 
places  under  the  head  of  simple  casualty r,  the  loss 
which  he  sustained  from  the  fire  of  the  schooner,  and 
which  we  know  positively  to  have  been  more  than 
one  hundred  men.  After  supposing  that  the  85th  regi 
ment  advanced  in  consequence  of  a  pretended  ruse  de 
guerre  on  our  part,  he  found  himself,  says  the  report, 
"  surrounded  by  a  superior  number  of  the  enemy  ^  -who 
ordered  him  to  surrender" — "  the  answer"  continues 
he,  '*  "was  an  instantaneous  attack.  A  more  extraordi 
nary  conflict  has,  perhaps,  never  occurred;  absolutely 
hand  to  hand,  both  officers  and  men."  This  "  superior 
number  of  the  enemy  "  was  simply  captain  Beale's 
company  of  volunteer  riflemen,  amounting  in  all  to  six 
ty-two;  they  penetrated,  as  I  have  before  mentioned, 
into  the  mids  ol  the  enemy's  camp,  without  a  bayo 
net,  and  nevertheless,  disarmed  and  took  prisoners 


240  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

a  considerable  number  of  his  men.  This  took  place 
within  the  enclosure  of  Lacoste's  plantation,  near  the 
houses.  I  also  refer  the  reader  to  my  narrative  of 
this  affair  to  correct  the  mistake,  which  makes  half  of 
the  company  fall  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy,  and 
which  the  general  would  fain  attribute  to  the  bravery 
of  his  85th  regiment. 

In  another  part  of  the  same  report,  general  Keane 
makes  his  93d  regiment  advance  to  charge  with  the 
bayonet,  keeping  the  4th  lc  as  his  reserve"  Here 
there  is  only  one  single  mistake,  that  of  taking 
an  American  for  a  British  corps;  it  certainly  was 
Plauche's  battalion,  instead  of  his  93d  regiment,  of 
which  the  general  meant  to  speak;  for  as  soon  as, 
throughout  this  part  of  our  line,  that  is  to  say,  from 
the  left  of  our  right  division,  which  was  directly  in 
front  of  the  centre,  of  which  general  Keane  speaks, 
the  general  shout  "  a  la  bayonnette"  was  given,  this 
famous  centre,  after  making  a  single  discharge  of 
musketry,  gave  way  precipitately.  The  general  may 
have  heard  the  word  "  bayonet"  and  supposed  it  pro 
ceeded  from  his  own  mouth!  Let  us  pass  over  this 
mistake.  I  must,  however,  remark,  that  general 
Keane's  watch  was  probably  regulated  for  another 
meridian  than  that  of  Louisiana,  since  it  was  only 
half  past  eight  o'clock,  when  this  took  place,  and  the 
report  says  it  happened  at  half  past  ten.  But  the 
general  proceeds:  "  The  enemy  ?iow  determined  to 
make  a  last  effort,  and  collecting  the  -whole  ofhisforcey 
formed  an  extensive  line,  and  moved"  &c.  "  The 
line  drove  in  all  advanced  posts  "  See, 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  241 

Who  would  not  suppose,  from  the  preceding  sen 
tence,  that  our  little  band  had  made  a  desperate  and 
general  attack!  The  report  certainly  conveys  this  idea, 
but  it  is  very  wide  from  the  truth.  The  enemy  retired 
before  our  right,  and  the  firing  had  ceased  on  both 
sides,  when  general  Coffee,  who  commanded  the  left 
division,  advanced  and  drove  them  before  him.  I  re 
fer  the  reader  again  to  my  narrative  of  this  affair,  and 
to  the  Atlas,  (plate  No.  6.)  I  would  have  too  much  to 
do  if  I  were  obliged  to  correct  all  the  errors  in  point 
of  fact,  and  all  the  perversions  of  circumstances,  con 
tained  in  general  Keane's  report.  I  shall  content  my 
self  with  remarking,  that  he  states  our  force  at  five 
thousand  men,  whereas  it  consisted  of  but  nineteen 
hundred  effective;  and  that  the  engagement  terminat 
ed,  not  at  half  past  twelve,  as  he  pretends,  but  at  half 
past  nine.  The  remainder  of  the  report  consists  of 
eulogies  on  the  officers  who  distinguished  themselves 
in  this  affair.  I  do  not  pretend  to  say  that  they  have 
not  merited  this  distinction,  but  I  venture  to  affirm, 
that  if  the  reports  of  general  Keane  are  correctly  made 
up  from  those  handed  him  by  the  different  com 
manders  of  corps,  these  gentlemen  must  have  been 
under  great  agitation  during  the  engagement,  to  com 
mit  such  gross  blunders.  They  had  better  have  ho 
nestly  confessed  that  they  were  unprepared  for  the 
scene,  and  that  the  firmness  and  promptitude  of  our 
attack  astonished  and  disconcerted  them.  But  it  be 
longs  only  to  superior  minds  to  make  such  acknow 
ledgments,  and  besides,  an  official  report,  composed 
of  such  materials,  would  npt  have  the  desired  effect, 

i  i 


242}  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

and  could  not  have  been  submitted  to  the  inspection 
of  the  most  thinking  people  of  England,  as  one  of 
their  writers  affects  to  call  them. 

No.  3  contains  an  extract  from  major  Forrest's 
journal,  beforementioned.  This  extract  dates  the 
loss  of  the  schooner  Carolina  on  the  26th,  whereas 
she  blew  up  on  the  27th:  and  again,  the  first  attack 
on  our  line,  said  to  have  taken  place  on  the  27th,  was 
made  on  the  28th.  The  report  of  this  last  day  is 
given  in  a  very  succinct  form.  I  request  the  reader 
to  compare  it  with  my  account.  That  of  the  1st  Jan 
uary,  1815,  is  equally  concise,  and  makes  no  mention 
of  the  effect  of  our  artillery  upon  the  enemy's  bat 
teries,  nor  of  the  number  of  men  destroyed  by  our 
fire.  As  to  the  rest,  this  journal  breathes  a  tone  of 
moderation  honourable  to  its  author;  if  it  does  not 
contain  the  whole  truth,  it  at  least  contains  no  direct 
assertions  in  opposition  to  it. 

No.  4  contains  a  despatch  of  major-general  Lam 
bert,  on  whom  devolved  the  command  of  the  British 
army,  after  the  death  of  general  Packenham,  as  being 
the  next, in  rank,  generals  Gibbs  and  Keane  having 
been  carried  oft  the  field  of  battle,  severely  wounded, 
on  the  8th  of  January.  General  Lambert  assumed 
the  command  at  a  critical  moment,  and  under  very 
unfavourable  auspices,  and  I  doubt  not,  under  cir 
cumstances  very  painful  to  his  feelings.  He  had  a 
melancholy  duty  to  perform,  in  announcing  the  re 
sult  of  the  attack  of  the  8th  January.  His  was  the 
painful  task  to  render  an  account  of  a  complete  de 
feat,  to  a  minister  of  his  government,  to  a  member  of 
the  same  cabinet  who,  with  the  sang  froid  of  po- 


HISTORICAL   MEMOIR.  243 

iiticians,  had  prepared  this  formidable  armament, 
whose  success  had  not  even  been  questioned  and  who, 
instead  of  the  recital  of  a  brilliant  victory,  announced 
in  anticipation,  in  their  gazettes,  as  a  certain  event, 
to  express  a  doubt  of  which  would  have  been  an  in 
sult  to  the  English  nation,  and  of  which,  they  baid 
they  awaited  only  the  particulars— this  general  was 
obliged  to  detail  a  disaster  the  most  complete,  and  a 
reverse  the  most  poignant  that  the  British  arms  had 
ever  sustained  in  the  new  hemisphere.  This  task, 
it  must  be  confessed,  was  hard  to  perform,  especially 
as  to  the  recital  of  an  attack  which  had  miscarried 
so  entirely,  though  made  by  numerous  and  experi 
enced  troops,  this  officer  must  necessarily  subjoin 
the  enormous  loss  of  his  nation,  in  officers  and  men. 
It  is  well  known  that  general  Lambert  felt  and  un 
derstood  all  that  was  disagreeable  and  embarrassing 
in  his  situation,  much  better  than  he  expressed  it; 
but  upon  the  whole,  he  gives  a  correct  account  of  the 
localities  and  the  respective  positions  of  the  troops. 

Our  triumph  was  so  distinguished,  that  I  cannot, 
in  honour,  indulge  in  any  reflections  on  this  report. 
If  general  Lambert  does  not  give  all  the  details  of 
an  affair  so  disastrous  to  his  army,  if  he  passes  slight 
ly  over  many  circumstances  of  this  memorable  day, 
the  body  of  facts  that  he  does  present,  is  neverthe 
less  generally  correct.  I  shall  take  the  liberty,  how 
ever,  of  rectifying  two  mistakes  in  his  report.  The 
first  is,  where  he  mentions  the  death  of  the  Com 
mander-in-chief,  general  Packenham.  It  was  not 
this  officer,  but  brigade-major  Wilkinson  who  fell, 
en  the  glacis  of  our  line.  The  former  was  killed  by 


244  'HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

grape-shot,  from  the  twelve  pounder  in  battery  No, 
8,  while  in  the  act  of  encouraging  the  troops,  at  the 
point  marked  in  the  plan  of  the  affair  of  the  8th  Ja 
nuary.  (See  Atlas,  plate  7.) 

The  second  and  more  important  error,  is  in  the 
passage,  where  general  Lambert  says. — "  As  they 
(the  British  troops,)  advanced,  a  continued  and  most 
galling  fire  was  opened  from  every  part  of  the  line" 
&c.  In  my  plan  of  this  affair,  I  have  distinguished, 
by  lines,  and  I  venture  to  say,  with  the  greatest  ex 
actness,  both  the  extent  and  the  direction  of  our  fire. 
The  battalions  of  Plauche,  Daquin,  Lacoste,  with 
three-fourths  of  the  44th  regiment,  that  is  to  say,  our 
whole  centre,  did  not  fire  a  single  shot!  Two  com 
panies  of  this  last  corps  had  fired  two  or  three  rounds, 
when  the  officers,  observing  that  their  shot  did  not 
reach  the  enemy,  ordered  them  to  cease  firing.  The 
majority  of  the  troops  under  general  Coffee  did  not 
fire  at  all,  so  that  but  one-half  of  our  line  was  engag 
ed.  This  is  a  fact  for  the  truth  of  which  I  appeal 
to  the  individual  testimony  of  every  man  in  our  army, 
and  even  to  all  those  of  the  enemy  who  have  can 
dour  enough  to  acknowledge  an  unpleasant  truth. 

In  my  account  of  the  affair  of  the  8th  January, 
which  I  beg  the  reader  to  compare  with  the  report 
of  general  Lambert,  I  have  forgotten  to  mention  a 
circumstance  that  reflects  the  highest  honour  on  our 
troops.  I  shall  insert  it  here;  and  it  cannot  fail  to 
afford  pleasure  to  the  feeling  mind. 

At  the  time  of  the  preceding  attacks,  those  of 
the  28th  of  December,  and  first  of  January,  after  our 
artillery  had  silenced  that  of  the  enemy,  and  forced 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  245 

his  troops  to  retire,  repeated  huzzas  from  the  whole 
of  our  line  rent  the  air;  the  most  lively  demonstra 
tions  of  joy  «were  everywhere  exhibited  by  our  sol 
diers,  a  presage  of  the  fate  of  the  enemy,  in  a  general 
attack.  On  the  8th  of  January,  on  the  contrary,  no 
sooner  was  the  battle  over  than  the  roar  of  artillery 
and  musketry  gave  place  to  the  mast  profound  si 
lence.  Flushed  with  victory,  having  just  repulsed 
an  enemy  who  had  advanced  to  scatter  death  in 
their  ranks,  our  soldiers  saw,  in  the  numerous  corpses 
that  strewed  the  plain,  only  the  unfortunate  victims 
of  war;  in  the  wounded  and  prisoners,  whom  they 
hastened  to  attend,  only  suffering  and  unhappy  men, 
and  in  their  vanquished  enemies,  brave  men,  worthy 
a  better  cause.  Elated  with  their  success,  but  over 
powered  by  the  feelings  of  a  generous  sympathy  for 
those  unfortunate  victims  of  the  ambition  of  their 
masters,  they  disdained  to  insult  the  unfortunate  by 
an  untimely  exultation,  and  cautiously  avoided  any 
expression  of  joy,  lest  they  should  wound  the  feel 
ings  of  those  whom  the  chance  of  battle  had  placed 
in  their  hands.  In  the  midst  of  the  horrors  of  war, 
humanity  dwells  with  delightful  complacency,  on 
the  recital  of  such  noble  traits;  they  sooth  the  heart 
under  the  pressure  of  adversity,  and  divert  the  mind 
from  the  contemplation  of  ills  which  we  can  neither 
avoid  nor  entirely  remedy. 

I  have  said,  that  the  English  troops  advanced  on 
our  line,  with  the  greatest  firmness,  and  I  willingly 
seize  the  present  opportunity  of  adding  my  feeble 
testimony  of  this  fact  to  that  of  general  Lambert.  In 
the  list  of  killed  and  wounded,  which  is  subjoined  to 


246  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

his  report,  it  will  be  remarked  that  the  proportion  of 
officers  is  enormous.  From  this  circumstance  may 
be  formed  a  correct  idea  of  the  vigour  of  the  attack, 
on  the  part  of  the  enemy,  and  of  the  valour  with  which 
it  was  sustained.  Independently  of  three  general 
officers  who  succumbed,  on  this  day  a  great  many 
of  the  most  distinguished  families  of  England  have 
to  deplore  the  loss  of  some  of  their  relatives,  who 
died  like  heroes  on  the  bed  of  honour;  with  such  men 
it  is  always  glorious  to  be  connected. 

The  report  of  general  Lambert  is  written  in  the 
same  liberal  and  dignified  style  which  has  always 
been  remarked  in  his  communications  with  general 
Jackson  and  his  officers. 

No.  5  is  the  report  of  colonel  Thornton,  com 
mander  of  the  English  troops,  in  the  attack  on  the 
right  bank  of  the  river,  on  the  8th  of  January.  It  is 
addressed  to  general  Packenham,  of  whose  death  he 
was  unadvised.  The  colonel  in  one  part  of  this  re 
port  says:  "  we  met  with  no  obstacle,  until  we  reached 
a  picket ,  posted  behind  a  bridge"  &c.  "and  secured 
by  a  small  work •,  apparently  just  thrown  up."  The 
bridge,  of  which  he  here  speaks,  is  that  over  May- 
hew's  mill-race,  but  as  for  the  "  small  work"  appa 
rently  just  thrown  up,  I  really  cannot  conceive  what 
he  means.  There  existed  nothing  of  this  nature,  or 
which  he  could  consider  as  such,  but  the  embank 
ment  of  the  canal,  raised  several  years  ago,  with  the 
earth  dug  out  of  it.  If  colonel  Thornton  should  ever 
travel  along  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi,  especially 
below  New  Orleans,  he  will  meet  with  many  such 
fortifications. 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  247 

In  the  5th  plate  of  the  Atlas,  will  be  found  a  cor 
rect  view  of  that  position,  which,  to  colonel  Thornton, 
seemed  to  be  "  a  very  formidable  redoubt,  on  the  bank 
of  the  river,  with  the  right  flank  secured  by  an  en 
trenchment,  extending  back  to  a  thick  wood,  and  its 
fine  protected  by  an  incessant  flre  of  grape  "  This 
pretended  redoubt,  with  its  entrenched  flank,  extended 
but  two  hundred  yards  from  the  bank  of  the  river, 
and  not  to  a  wood,  as  the  colonel  asserts.  Beyond 
these  two  hundred  yards,  and  in  front  of  the  troops 
under  colonel  Davis,  there  was  only  an  extension  of 
the  old  canal  Raguet,  two-thirds  filled,  and  affording 
no  sort  of  shelter.  I  refer  the  reader  to  what  I  have 
said,  in  this  work,  of  the  above  line,  and  the  disposi 
tion  of  the  troops,  &c. 

According  to  this  officer's  account,  our  troops 
on  the  right  bank  of  the  river,  amounted  to  fifteen 
hundred;  while  in  fact  the  number  of  our  effective  men 
did  not  exceed  eight  hundred.  He  takes  care  not  to 
say,  that  the  greater  part  of  our  pieces  of  artillery  were 
spiked — and  their  ammunition  thrown  into  the  ri 
ver:  it  would  seem,  on  the  contrary,  that  he  took  a 
considerable  quantity  of  it,  which  cannot  be  the  case, 
as  commodore  Patterson  had  taken  care  to  destroy 
them,  and  all  that  he  got  possession  of  were  a  few 
rounds  for  the  pieces  mounted  on  the  line,  and  some 
musket  cartridges. 

I  renew  my  invitation  to  the  reader,  to  compare 
every  document  of  the  enemy,  with  my  narrative, 
and  to  trace  the  movements  on  the  map,  as  the  only 
means  to  arrive  at  the  truth. 


248  HISTORICAL   MEMOIR. 

No.  6  is  a  despatch  of  admiral  Cochrane,  to  the 
secretary  of  the  admiralty,  which  gives  an  account 
of  the  operations  reported  by  his  generals  Keane  and 
Lambert,  with  those  mentioned  by  major  Forrest,  but 
in  a  more  succinct  manner.  His  letter  is  devoted 
principally  to  the  operations  of  the  marines  and  sai 
lors  landed  from  the  fleet,  to  aid  the  land  service; — 
and  the  mention  of  the  marine  officers  who  had  distin 
guished  themselves.  Accompanying  his  letter  is 
one  of  captain  Thomas  Trowbridge,  who  command 
ed  the  sailors  that  were  disembarked,  reporting  fa 
vourably  the  names  of  some  of  his  officers  whose 
good  conduct  he  had  occasion  to  notice. 

Admiral  Cochrane  also  announces  the  bombard 
ment  of  fort  Plaqucmine,  which  he  fears,  has  not  yet 
produced  all  the  effect  he  no  doubt  had  expected  from 
it.  More  than  one  thousand  bombs  had  been  thrown 
at  the  fort — but  in  vain.  It  appears,  that  the  admi 
ral  had  not  sufficiently  studied  the  quality  of  the  soil 
of  Louisiana,  when  he  despatched  this  little  squadron 
into  the  Mississippi,  to  make,  as  he  says,  a  diversion; 
but  in  fact,  to  force  a  passage;  unfortunately,  how 
ever,  for  his  expectations,  the  bravery  and  vigilance 
of  the  garrison  of  fort  St.  Philip  defeated  his  scheme. 
No.  7  contains  a  long  letter  from  general  Lam 
bert,  addressed  to  lord  Bathurst,  detailing  the  move 
ments  of  the  British  army,  from  the  affair  of  the  8th 
of  January  until  the  28th  of  the  same  month,  the  day 
after  the  total  evacuation  by  their  forces.  In  this  let 
ter,  he  says  what  is  not  altogether  correct,  viz.  that 
the  army  was  not  at  all  harassed,  in  its  retreat.  I  have 
given  an  account  of  the  movements  ordered  by  ge 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIft.  249 

neral  Jackson,  to  annoy  the  enemy,  who  certainly 
feared  being  harassed,  as  is  proved  by  his  placing,  in 
the  bayous,  barges  armed  with  artillery,  to  cover  his 
retreat,  and  fire  on  the  troops  sent  in  pursuit,  which 
they  did,  as  I  have  related  in  this  work,  in  its  proper 
place.  The  enemy  also  raised  breastworks,  in  se 
veral  places,  on  the  borders  of  the  bayous.  (See 
Atlas,  plate  No.  5.) 

Effectually  to  annoy  the  enemy,  in  his  retreat, 
we  had  need  of  boats,  to  descend  the  bayou  Bien- 
venu,  sufficiently  large  to  carry  artillery.  These, 
as  I  have  already  said,  we  did  not  possess.  General 
Jackson,  with  men  and  muskets  could  make  soldiers; 
but  he  could  not  fabricate  arms,  nor  supply  the  want 
of  a  naval  force. 

In  support  of  what  I  have  advanced,  as  to  the 
intention  of  the  British  government,  to  carry  on  a 
war  of  pillage  and  devastation  against  the  United 
States,  I  insert  several  letters  which  establish  this 
fact,  beyond  all  possibility  of  doubt.  (See  Appen* 
dix,  No.  67.)  Some  of  these  letters  were  written 
by  superior  officers,  to  others  of  similar  grade;  all 
of  whom  would  have  cautiously  avoided  the  ex 
pression  of  such  sentiments,  had  they  not  been  assur 
ed  beforehand,  that  they  corresponded  with  those  of 
their  government.  I  shall  abstain  from  all  reflection 
on  these  letters-— they  speak  for  themselves.  Com 
ment  upon  them  might  subject  me  to  the  charge  of 
wishing  to  influence  the  opinion  of  my  readers  res 
pecting  documents  which  are  alone  sufficient  to  give 
a  finish  to  the  picture  of  the  enemy  with  whom  \v<i 
had  to  contend. 

K  k 


250  HISTORICAL  MEMOIR. 

In  the  above  review  of  the  British  official  reports, 
I  have  been  guided  by  that  strict  regard  to  truth 
and  that  severe  impartiality,  to  which  an  historian  is 
ever  bound  to  adhere  and  should  never  lose  sight  of. 
The  reader  may  compare  for  himself  and  form  his 
own  opinion.  He  will  also  observe,  that  these  re 
ports  are  written  in  a  style  of  decorum  and  modesty, 
by  no  means  usual  with  the  enemy,  previous  to  this 
period.  It  appears  to  have  been  reserved  for  the 
British  officers,  to  be  taught  on  the  shores  of  the 
Mississippi,  to  know  a  nation,  who,  neither  in  the 
course  nor  at  the  commencement  of  this  struggle,  had 
ever  any  cause  for  self  reproach,  but  who,  on  the 
contrary,  had  given  many  proofs  of  her  patience  in 
enduring  the  repeated  and  long-continued  injustice 
of  the  English,  and  was,  at  length  obliged  to  redress 
her  grievances  by  the  sword. 

Far  from  me  be  the  wish  of  recriminating  fur 
ther  on  the  conduct  of  the  British  in  the  war  which  is 
now  happily  closed  by  a  peace,  honourable  to  both 
nations.  I  shall  terminate  this  work,  by  offering  up, 
in  -common  with  all  good  citizens,  my  prayer  to  hea 
ven  that  it  may  long  endure,  and  the  effusions  of  my 
gratitude  to  divine  Providence,  for  the  protection, 
which  has  encouraged  and  supported  us  through  the 
glorious  struggle.  The  unexampled  prosperity,  to 
which  America  has  attained,  notwithstanding  the  ob 
stacles  inseparable  from  a  state  of  warfare,  is  a  new 
proof  of  the  divine  favour;  and  a  sure  pledge  of  our  fu 
ture  safety.  While  the  names  of  Bridgewater,  Chippe- 
wa,  fort  Erie,  Stonington,  Plattsburg,  Baltimore  and 
New  Orleans,  will  ever  excite,  in  the  hearts  of  Ame- 


HISTORICAL  MEMOIR.  251 

ricans  the  most  lively  sensations  of  joy  and  of  na 
tional  pride,  it  is  to  be  hoped  they  will  teach  the 
English  this  important  lesson,  that  none  can  insult 
with  impunity  a  nation,  which  is  firmly  determined 
to  maintain  itself  in  the  enjoyment  of  FREEDOM  and 

INDEPENDENCE. 


NOTES. 

1. 

AFTER  what  I  have  said  in  the  text  of  this  work,  relative  to 
the  Barratarians,  had  been  prepared  for  the  press,  other  particu 
lars  came  to  my  knowledge,  which  I  have  thought  proper  to  in 
sert  here. 

In  the  month  of  September,  1814,  commodore  Patterson 
had  received  instructions  from  the  secretary  of  the  navy,  to  dis 
perse  the  Barratarian  association,  and  the  schooner  Carolina  had 
been  ordered  to  New  Orleans,  for  that  purpose — he  was  accord 
ingly  making  preparations,  jointly  with  colonel  Ross,  of  the  44th 
regiment,  then  military  commandant  at  New  Orleans,  but  previous 
to  the  completion  of  his  arrangements,  communications  of  consid 
erable  importance  were  received  by  the  governor,  from  Barrataria, 
which  rendered  doubtful  the  course  which  prudence  required  to  be 
taken.  These  communications  furnished  the  particulars  of  an  over 
ture  which  had  been  made  by  certain  British  officers,  then  at  Pen- 
sacola,  to  Mr.  Lafitte,  as  the  officer  commanding  at  Barrataria,  to 
join  the  British,  in  an  attack  on  New  Orleans.  The  letters  ancj 
propositions  of  the  English  were  sent  by  Mr.  Lafitte,  under  cover 
to  Mr.  Blanque,  a  distinguished  and  influential  member  of  the 
legislature.  This  gentleman  deeming  the  disclosure  by  Mr.  La 
fitte,  of  great  importance  to  the  safety  of  the  state,  hastened  to 
lay  the  same  before  the  governor.  Copies  of  these  letters  are 
inserted  in  the  appendix. 

The  governor  of  Louisiana  thought  proper  to  invite,  on  the  oc 
casion,  the  opinions  and  counsel  of  some  of  the  principal  officers 
of  the  army,  navy,  and  militia,  then  in  New  Orleans,  and  to  whom, 
after  communicating  the  letters  of  the  English  officers,  the  man 
ner  in  which  they  had  come  to  his  hands,  or  his  reasons  for  believ 
ing  them  genuine,  he  submitted  two  questions. —  1st,  whether  the 
letters  were  genuine,  and  2d,  whether  it  was  proper  that  the  go 
vernor  should  hold  intercourse,  or  enter  into  any  correspondence 
with  Mr.  Lafitte  and  his  associates.  To  each  of  those  questions, 
an  answer  in  the  negative  was  returned;  major-general  Villere 
alone  dissenting — this  officer  being,  as  well  as  the  governor,  who 
presiding  in  the  council  could  not  give  his  opinion,  not  only  sa- 


254  NOTES. 

tisfied  as  to  the,authenticity  of  the  letters,  but  believing  that  the 
Barratarians  might  be  employed  at  the  present  crisis,  in  such  man 
ner  as  greatly  to  contribute  to  the  safety  of  the  state  and  the  an 
noyance  of  the  enemy.  The  preparations  for  the  expedition,  un 
der  captain  Patterson  and  colonel  Ross,  were  continued,  the  for 
mer  acting  under  the  orders  of  the  secretary  of  the  navy,  and  the 
latter  co-operating,  as  is  understood,  at  the  request  of  the  gover 
nor  of  Louisiana.  The  result  of  the  expedition  was  fully  com 
municated  in  a  letter  from  captain  Patterson  to  the  secretary  of 
the  navy,  which  has  been  published  in  several  of  the  newspapers. 
Many  of  the  fugitives  having  reached  New  Orleans,  and 
several  being  committed  to  jail,  it  was  evident  U^t  the  Barratarian 
association  was  extensive,  and  many  good  citizens  seemed  to  think, 
that  in  the  perilous  condition  of  Louisiana,  it  was  good  policy  to 
avail  themselves  of  the  services  of  men,  most  of  whom  ha*l  been 
accustomed  to  war,  and  who,  from  the  perfect  knowledge  of  our 
coast,  and  the  various  points  of  approach  to  New  Orleans,  might 
be  particularly  useful  to  the  enemy,  by  whom  it  was  now  well 
ascertained,  they  had  so  earnestly  been  entreated  to  repair  to  his 
standard.  But  as  a  preliminary  and  indispensable  step,  a  pardon 
for  all  real  or  supposed  oifences  was  necessary,  and  this  could 
be  granted  only  by  the  president.  The  governor  was  one  of  those, 
who  thought  that  the  Barratarians  might  be  advantageously  em 
ployed  against  the  enemy,  and  as  early  as  the day  of  October 

1418,  in  a  letter  to  the  attorney-general  of  the  United  States, 
he  recommended  them  to  the  favour  of  the  executive.  "  It  is 
greatly  to  be  regretted  (says  the  governor)  that  the  general  or 
state  government  had  not  sooner  put  them  down — the  length  of 
time  they  were  permitted  to  continue  their  practices,  added  much 
to  their  strength,  and  led  the  people  here  to  view  their  course  as 
less  vitious.  Measures  tending  to  the  prevention  of  crimes,  can 
alone  relieve  us  from  the  distress  of  punishing  them;  had  such 
measures  in  regard  to  the  offences  in  question,  been  earlier  taken, 
we  should  not  now  have  to  lament  the  frequency  of  their  commis 
sion.  Justice  may  require  the  punishment  of  some  of  the  more 
culpable,  but  I  see  no  good  end  to  be  attained  by  making  the 
penalties  of  the  law  to  fall  extensively  and  heavily — the  example 
is  not  the  less  imposing,  by  circumscribing  the  numbers  of  its  vie- 


NOTES.  255 

tims,  and  the  mercy  which  should  dictate  it  seldom  fails  to  make 
a  salutary  and  lasting  impression."  After  the  capture  of  our  gun 
boats,  the  invasion  of  the  state  was  inevitable,  and  the  expedien 
cy  of  inviting  the  Barratarians  to  our  standard  was  generally  ad 
mitted.  The  governor  conferred  on  the  subject  with  major-gen 
eral  Jackson;  and  with  his  approbation  issued,  on  the  17th  of  De 
cember,  1814,  the  following  general  orders: 

"  The  governor  of  Louisiana,  informed  that  many  individuals, 
who  may  be  or  who  are  supposed  to  be,  implicated  in  the  of 
fences  heretofore  committed  against  the  United  States  at  Barra- 
taria,  and  who  have  for  some  time  past  concealed  themselves 
on  account  of  their  inability  to  procure  bail  in  case  of  arrest; 
at  the  present  crisis  express  a  willingness  to  enrol  them 
selves  and  to  march  against  the  enemy. — He  does  hereby  invite 
them  to  join  the  standard  of  the  United  States,  and  is  authorized 
to  say,  should  their  conduct  in  the  field  meet  the  approbation  of 
major-general  Jackson,  that  that  officer  will  unite  with  the  go 
vernor  in  a  request  to  the  president  of  the  United  States  to  ex 
tend  to  each  and  every  individual  as  aforesaid  so  marching  and 
acting,  a  free  and  full  pardor  .'•' 

(Signed)  WILLIAM  C.  C.  CLAIBORNE. 

Governor  commanding  the  militia. 

These  orders  were  sent  in  every  direction,  and  tended  to 
bring  to  our  standard  many  brave  men  and  excellent  artillerists, 
whose  services  contributed  greatly  to  the  safety  of  Louisiana,  and 
received  the  highest  approbation  of  the  commanding  general. 
The  legislature  of  the  state,  previous  to  their  adjournment,  re 
commended  the  Barratarians  as  proper  objects  for  the  clemency 
of  the  president,  who,  by  his  proclamation  upon  the  subject  bearing 
date  the  6th  of  February  1815,  and  transmitted  officially  to  the 
governor,  by  the  secretary  of  state  of  the  United  States,  granted 
to  them  a  full  and  entire  pardon. 

NOTE  2. 

IT  has  been  asserted  from  the  concurrent  report  of  a  great 
number  of  the  British  prisoners  and  deserters,  that  on  the  memo 
rable  8th  of  February,  the  parole  and  countersign  of  the  enemy's 


256  NOTES. 

army  were  beauty  and  booty.  Although  this  report  is  generally 
believed  in  the  United  States,  particularly  as  it  never  has  been 
formally  denied  by  those  whom  it  most  concerns,  I  have  not 
thought  it  sufficiently  authenticated  to  record  it  as  an  historical 
fact.  It  is  indeed  a  most  heinous  charge,  and  if  untrue,  requires  not 
cfnly  a  clear  and  positive  denial,  but  also  the  proof  of  the  genuine 
parole  and  countersign,  which  may  be  easily  obtained,  as  it  is  well 
known  that  it  is  consigned  in  the  orderly  books  of  every  corps  in 
the  army.  It  has  been  said  that  the  British  government  considers 
it  below  its  dignity  to  condescend  to  refute  a  calumny  which  has 
been  only  circulated  through  the  medium  of  newspapers  and 
other  periodical  publications  in  the  United  States.  But  this  will  not 
do;  the  almost  unanimous  assertion  of  the  deserters  and  prisoners 
on  which  this  report  is  founded,  is  a  fact  too  serious  to  be  looked 
over,  and  it  is  but  too  much  supported  by  the  positive  and  repeated 
threats  of  admiral  Cochrane  in  his  letters  of  the  18th  August  and 
19th  September  1814,(See  Appendix,  No.  8,)  by  the  letters  of  other 
officers  intercepted  on  board  the  St.  Lawrence,  (see  also  Appen 
dix  No.  67)  and  the  conduct  of  the  British  at  Hampton,  Alexandria, 
and  other  places.  It  cannot  be  considered  derogatory  to  the  dig 
nity  of  any  government  to  undeceive  a  great  nation,  among 
whom  every  individual  exercises  a  portion  of  the  sovereignty. 
The  voice  of  that  nation  will  be  heard,  and  its  historians,  if  the 
British  government  persists  in  its  unjustifiable  silence,  will  at  last 
no  longer  be  swayed  by  the  motives  of  delicacy  and  respect  to  a 
vanquished  enemy  which  have  actuated  the  author  of  these  me 
moirs.  The  fame  of  general  Packenham  and  his  officers,  the 
moral  character  of  the  British  military,  strongly  implicated  by  a 
charge  of  this  nature,  and  the  honour  of  the  British  government 
all  imperiously  demand  that  it  be  refuted,  if  capable  of  refutation, 
which  may  be  easily  done,  if  general  Lambert,  whose  honourable 
conduct  in  the  course  of  this  campaign  does  not  permit  the  least 
doubt  to  be  entertained  of  his  veracity,  will  only  come  forward 
and  state  the  real  state  of  the  fact — otherwise,  and  if  proof,  such 
as  this,  cannot  be  obtained,  the  report  must  be  considered  as  true, 
and,  I  leave  to  future  historians  the  unpleasant  task  of  animad 
verting  upon  a  conduct  so  shocking  to  humanity. 


APPENDIX. 

TABLE  OF  CONTENTS. 

NO.  I. 

COPY  of  a  letter  from  vice-admiral  Cochrane  to  Mr.  Monroe  ,i 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  Mr,  Monroe  to  vice-admiral  Coch 
rane,  &c.  y 
An  extract  from  the  National  Intelligencer,                                   iv 
Copy  of  a  letter  from  vice-admiral  Cochrane,  to  the  secre* 

,tary  of  state,  v 

NO.  II. 

Anonymous  letter  written  from  the  Havanna,  •  v 

NO.  III. 

Proclamation  by  lietenant-colonel  Nicholls,       -  vii 

Letter  from  the  same  to  Mr.  Laffite,              -         -  ix 
Directing  orders  by  W.  H.  Percy,  captain  of  the  British 

ship  the  Hermes,  See.                                        -  ib. 

Letter  from  the  same  to  captain  Lockyer,  &c.  x 

NO.  IV. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  to  captain  Lockyer,  xi 

NO.  V. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  to  Mr.  Blanque,  xii 

Letter  from  the  same  to  the  same,  xiii 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  to  governor  Claiborne,  ib, 

NO.  VI. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  the  elder,  to  Mr.  Blanque?  xiv 

NO.  VII, 

Circular  letter  from  the  war  department  to  the  governors 

of  the  several  states,  xv 

Extract  of  a  letter  from  general  Jackson  to  governor  Clai 
borne,  -  xvi 


258  CONTENTS. 

NO.  VIII. 

Militia  general  orders,  -       xvii 

NO.  IX. 

Extract  of  a  letter  from  general  Jackson  to  governor  Clai- 

borne,  -  xx 

NO.  X. 

Militia  general  orders,  xx 

After  general  orders,  -  xxi 

NO.  XL 

Militia  general  orders,  xxii 

NO.  XII. 

Order  of  the  day  for  the  first  coloniel  battalion  of  the  royal 

marines  xxiv 

NO.  XIII. 

Resolutions  by  the  citizens  of  New  Orleans,  xxv 

NO.  XIV. 

Address  from  the  committee  of  public  defence  to  their  fel 
low  citizens,  -  xxvii 

NO.  XV. 
Resolution  by  the  committee  of  public  defence,  xxviii 

NO.  XVI. 

Proclamation  by  general  Jackson  to   the  people  of  Loui 
siana.  -          xxix 

NO.  XVII. 

Proclamation  by  general  Jackson  to  the  free  coloured  in 
habitants  of  Louisiana,  xxxi 

NO.  XVIII. 

Anonymous  letter  to  commodore  Patterson  xxxii 

NO.  XIX. 

Letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to  the  secretary  of  the 

navy.         ...  .  .  xxxii 


CONTENTS.  259 

Report  made  by  lieutenant  Thomas  Ap.  Catesby  Jones  to 

commodore  Patterson,  xxxiu 

NO.  XX. 

Address  by  general  Jackson  to  the  militia  of  New  Orleans,  xxxvh* 

NO.  XXI. 

Military  order  from  the  adjutant-general's  office  directed 

to  the  citizens  of  New  Orleans,  xxxix 

NO.  XXII. 

An  act  from  the  legislature  of  Louisiana  to  grant  delays,  Sec.      xl 

NOS.  XXI1I-XXIV. 

Letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to  the  secretary  of  the 

navy.  xlii 

NO.  XXV. 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at 

war,  xliv 

Letter  from  the  same  to  the  same,  xlv 

NOS    XXVI-XXVII. 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  captain  Henley,  United  States  navy,  to 

commodore  Patterson,  -  xlvii 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war,  xlviii 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to  the  secretary 

of  the  navy,  xlix 

NO.  XXVIII. 

Letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to  the  secretary  of  the 

navy,  -  1 

NO.  XXIX. 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at 

war,  Hi 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  the  same  to  the  same,  liv 

Report  made  by  colonel  Hayne  to  general  Jackson,  Ivi 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at 

war,  ib. 

Letter  from  the  adjutant-general   R.  Butler  to  brigadier 

general  Parker  Iviii 

Report  of  killed,  wounded,  8cr.  ib. 


260  CONTENTS. 

Letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to  the  secretary  of  the 
navy, 

NO.  XXX. 

Address  of  general  Jackson  to  the  troops  stationed  on  the 
right  bank  of  the  Mississippi,  - 

NO    XXXI. 

Provisional  articles  of  exchange  for  prisoners,  Ixvi 

NO.  XXXII. 

letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war,  Ixvii 

NO.  XXXIII. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  reverend  abbe  Dubourg         Ixviii 

NO.  XXXIV. 

Defence  of  fort  St.  Philip — extract  of  a  letter  from  general 

Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war,  Ixix 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  major  Overton  to  general  Jackson,  ib. 

NO    XXXV. 

Address  by  the  rev.  abb6  Duborg  to  general  Jackson  at  the  ' 

ceremony  of  thanksgiving  -  Ixxi 

General  Jackson's  answer,          -  Ixxiii 

NO.  XXXVI. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  mayor  of  New  Orleans,  Ixxiii 

NO    XXXVII. 

Letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  general  Thomas  Ixxv 

Answer,  Ixxvi 

Letter  from -governor  Claiborne  to  general  Carroll,  Ixxvii 

Answer,                                                   -  ib. 

Letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  general  Adair,  Ixxviii 

Answer,                          -                          -  ib. 

Letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  general  Coffee,  Ixxix 

Answer,  Ixxx 

Letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  colonel  Hinds,  Ixxxi 

Answer,             -             -  ib. 

NO.  XXXVIII. 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson,  Ixxxii 

Letter  from  admiral  Cochrane  to  general  Jackson*  Ixxxiii 


CONTENTS.  261 

Another  from  the  same  to  the  same,  Ixxxiv 

Another  letter  from  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson,  ib. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  admiral  Cochrane,         -  Ixxxv 

Another  from  the  same  to  the  same,  Ixxxvi 

NO.  XXXIX. 

Letter  from  general  Winchester  to  the  secretary  at  war,    Ixxxvii 
Letter  from  colonel  Lawrence  to  general  Jackson,  ib. 

Articles  of  capitulation  of  fort  Bowyer,  Ixxxviii 

NO.  XL. 

General  orders  relating  to  an  inquiry  into  tne  conduct  of 

colonel  Lawrence,  Ixxxix 

NO.  XLI. 

Address  of  general  Jackson  to  the  soldiers  and  citizens  of 

New  Orleans,  xc 

NO.  XLII. 

Letter  from  general  Keane  to  general  Jackson.  xci 

NO.  XLIII. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war,  xci 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson,  xciii 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert,  -               xciv 

Letter  from  the  same  to  the  same,  ib. 

Letter  from  major  Woodruff  to  admiral  Cochrane,  'XQV 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  major  Woodruff,  xcvi 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson,  ib. 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  major  Woodruff  xcvii 

NO.  XLV. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war,  xcvii 

NO.  XLVI. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert  xcviii 

NO.  XLVII. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert  xcix 

NO.  XLVIII. 

General  orders,  - 


262  CONTENTS. 

NO.  XLIX. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert,  c 

Letter  from  the  same  to  major  Woodruff,  -        ci 

NO.  L. 

General  orders  relative  to  the  treaty  of  peace,  ci 

After  general  orders,  giving  communication  to  the  troops 

of  a  letter  from  the  secretary  at  war,  cil 

NO.  LI. 

General  orders  discharging  all  the  militia,  ciii 

NO.  LII. 

The  treaty  of  peace  with  Gritain  Britain,  cv 

NO.  LIIL 

Address  from  the  city  battalion  of  uniform  companies  to 

general  Jackson,  cxiv 

General's  answer.  cxvi 

NO.  LIV. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war,  cxviii 

NO.  LV. 

Letter  from  major  Woodruff  to  general  Jackson,  -         cxix 

NO.  LVI. 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson?  *          cxx 

NO.  LVII. 
Resolutions  by  the  congress  of  the  United  States  relative 

to  the  conduct  of  the  people  of  Louisiana  and  others,      cxxii 

NO.  LVIII. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert,  cxxiv 

NO.  LIX. 

Resolutions  of  the  legislature  of  Louisiana,  cxxiv 

NO.  LX. 

Proclamation  by  the  president  of  the  United  States,  cxxix 

NO.  LXI. 
Decision  of  the  court-martial  in  the  case  of  major  Villere,    cxxxi 


CONTENTS.  263 

NO.  LXII. 

Extracts  of  the  proceedings  of  a  court  of  inquiry  r  elativq 
to  the  retreat  on  the  right  bank  of  the  Mississippi  on 
the  8th  January,  1815,  cxxxii 

NO.  LXIII. 

Proceedings  of  a  court  of  inquiry  held  in  the  naval  arsenal 

at  New  Orleans,  by  order  of  commodore  Patterson,     cxxxii 

NO.  LXIV. 

A  list  of  the  corps  composing  the  British  army,  cxxxvi 

Staff  of  the  British  army,             -  -     cxxxvii 

Letter  from  Dr.  Morrell  to  the  author,  ib. 

NO    LXVI. 

No.  1.  Despatches  from  admiral  Cochrane  to  John  Wil 
son  Crooker,  esqr.  .  cxxxviii 
Letter  from  caytain  Lockyer  to  admiral  Cochrane  cxl 
A  list  of  the  British  killed  and  wounded  in  the  capture 

of  the  American  gun-boats,  -  -       exlfi 

No.  2.  Letter  from  major-general  Keane  to  major-general  *' 

Packenham,  cxliii 

No.  3.  Extracts  from  the  journal  of  the  movements  of  the 

British  army  -         -      cxlvii 

No.  4.  Despatch  from  general  Lambert  to  lord  Bathurst,      cxlix 
Return  of  casualties,  cliii 

No.  5.  Letter  from -lieutenant-colonel  Thornton  to  major- 
general  Packenham,     -  -  civil 
No.  6.  Letter  from  admiral    Cochrane  to   John   Wilson 

Crooker  esqr.  clix 

Letter  from  captain  Trowbridge  to  vice-admiral  Coch 
rane  clxv 
No.  7.  Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  earl  Bathurst            clxvi 
Return  of  casualties,                                                        -        clxx 
No.  8.  Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  earl  Bathurst,          clxxii 

NO.  LXVII. 

Letters  found  on  board  the  St.  Lawrence,  clxxvi 


264  CONTENTS. 

NO.  LXVIII. 

Negro  stealing  clxxx 

NO.  LXIX. 

Address  by  major-general  Jackson  to  the  army,  January 

21st,  1815. clxxxii 


APPENDIX, 

NO.  I. 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  vice-admiral  Cochrane  to  Mr.  Monroe. 

His  Britannic  majesty's  ship  the  Tonnant, 

in  the  Patuxent  river,  18th  Augnst,  1814. 

SIR — Having  been  called  upon  by  the  governor-general  of  the 
Canadas  to  aid  him  in  carrying  into  effect  measures  of  retaliation 
against  the  inhabitants  of  the  United  States,  for  the  wanton  de 
struction  committed  by  their  army  in  Upper  Canada,  it  has  be 
come  imperiously  my  duty,  conformably  with  the  nature  of  the 
governor-general's  application,  to  issue  to  the  naval  force  under 
my  command,  an  order  to  destroy  and  lay  waste  such  towns  and 
districts  upon  the  coast,  as  may  be  found  assailable. 

I  had  hoped  that  this  contest  would  have  terminated,  with 
out  my  being  obliged  to  resort  to  severities,  which  are  contrary  to 
the  usage  of  civilized  warfare,  and  as  it  has  been  with  extreme 
reluctance  and  concern  that  I  have  found  myself  compelled  to 
aclopt  this  system  of  devastation,  I  shall  be  equally  gratified  if  the 
conduct  of  the  executive  of  the  United  States  will  authorize  my 
staying  such  proceedings,  by  making  reparation  to  the  suffering 
inhabitants  of  Upper  Canada:  thereby  manifesting  that  if  the  de 
structive  measures  pursued  by  their  army  were  never  sanctioned, 
they  will  no  longer  be  permitted  by  the  government. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir,  with  much  consideration,  your 
rriost  obedient  humble  servant, 

(Signed)  ALEX.  COCHRANF. 


ii  APPENDIX. 

Cofiy  of  a  letter  from  Mr.  Monroe  to  sir  Alexander  Cochrane^vice- 
admiral,  Sec.   8cc. 

Department  of  state,  September  6,  1814, 

SIR— I  have  had  the  honour  to  receive  your  letter  of  the  18th 
of  August,  stating,  that  having  been  called  on  by  the  governor- 
general  of  the  Canadas,  to  aid  him  in  carrying  into  effect  mea 
sures  of  retaliation  against  the  inhabitants  of  the  United  States,  for 
the  wanton  desolation  committed  by  their  army  in  Upper  Canada, 
it  has  become  your  duty,  conformably  with  the  nature  of  the  go 
vernor-general's  application,  to  issue  to  the  naval  force  under 
your  command,  an  order  to  destroy  and  lay  waste  such  towns  and 
districts  upon  the  coast  as  may  be  found  assailable. 

It  is  seen  with  the  greatest  surprise,  that  this  system  of  de 
vastation  which  has  been  practised  by  the  British  forces,  so  mani 
festly  contrary  to  the  usage  of  civilized  warfare,  is  placed  by  you 
on  the  ground  of  retaliation.  No  sooner  were  the  United  States 
compelled  to  resort  to  war  against  Great  Britain,  than  they  resolv 
ed  to  wage  it  in  a  manner  most  consonant  to  the  principles  of  hu 
manity,  and  to  those  friendly  relations  which  it  was  desirable  to 
preserve  between  the  two  nations,  after  the  restoration  of  peace. 
They  perceived  however  with  the  deepest  regret,  that  a  spirit 
alike  just  and  humane  was  neither  cherished  nor  acted  on  by  your 
government.  Such  an  assertion  would  not  be  hazarded,  if  it  was 
not  supported  by  facts,  the  proof  of  which  has  perhaps  already 
carried  the  same  conviction  to  other  nations  that  it  has  to  the  peo 
ple  of  these  states.  Without  dwelling  on  the  deplorable  cruelties 
committed  by  the  savages  in  the  British  ranks,  and  in  British  pay, 
on  American  prisoners  at  the  river  Raisin,  which  to  this  day  have 
never  been  disavowed  or  atoned,  I  refer,  as  more  immediately 
connected  with  the  subject  of  your  letter,  to  the  wanton  desola 
tion  that  was  committed,  at  Havre-de-Grace,  and  at  Georgetown, 
early  in  the  Spring  1813.  These  villages  were  burnt  and  ravag 
ed  by  the  naval  forces  of  Great  Britain,  to  the  ruin  of  their  unarm 
ed  inhabitants,  who  saw  with  astonishment  that  they  derived  no 
protection  to  their  property  from  the  laws  of  war.  During  the 
same  season,  scenes  of  invasion  and  pillage,  carried  on  under  the 
same  authority,  were  witnessed  all  along  the  waters  of  the  Che- 
sapeake,  to  an  extent  inflicting  the  most  serious  private  distress, 


APPENDIX.  iii 

and  under  circumstances  that  justified  the  suspicion,  that  revenge 
and  cupidity,  rather  than  the  manly  motives  that  should  dictate 
the  hostility  of  the  high-minded  foe,  led  to  their  perpetration.  The 
late  destruction  of  the  houses  of  the  government  in  this  city  is 
another  act  which  comes  necessarily  in  view.  In  the  wars  of  mo 
dern  Europe,  no  examples  of  the  kind,  even  among  nations  the 
most  hostile  to  each  other,  can  be  traced.  In  the  course  of  ten 
years  past,  the  capitals  of  the  principal  powers  of  the  continent 
of  Europe  have  been  conquered,  and  occupied  alternately  by  the 
victorious  armies  of  each  other,  and  no  instance  of  such  wanton 
and  unjustifiable  destruction  has  been  seen.  We  must  go  back 
to  distant  and  barbarous  ages,  to  find  a  parallel  for  the  acts  ofr 
which  I  complain. 

Although  these  acts  of  desolation  invited,  if  they  did  not  im 
pose  on  the  government  the  necessity  of  retaliation,  yet  in  no  in 
stance  has  it  been  authorized.  The  burning  of  the  village  of 
Newark  in  Upper  Canada,  posterior  to  the  early  outrages  above 
enumerated,  was  not  executed  on  that  principle.  The  village  oi" 
Newark  adjoined  fort  George,  and  its  destruction  was  justified  by 
the  officer  who  ordered  it,  on  the  ground  that  it  became  necessary 
in  the  military  operations  there.  The  act  however  was  disavowed 
by  the  government.  The  burning  which  took  place  at  Long 
Point  was  unauthorized  by  the  government,  and  the  conduct  of 
the  officer  subjected  to  the  investigation  of  a  military  tribunal. 
For  the  burning  at  St.  David's,  committed  by  stragglers,  the  offi 
cer  who  commanded  in  that  quarter  was  dismissed  without  a  trial, 
for  not  preventing  it. 

I  am  commanded  by  the  president  distinctly  to  state,  that  it 
as  little  comports  with  any  orders  which  have  been  issued  to  the 
military  and  naval  commanders  of  the  United  States,  as  it  does 
with  the  established  and  known  humanity  of  the  American  nation, 
to  pursue  a  system  which  it  appears  you  have  adopted,  This  go 
vernment  owes  it  to  itself,  to  the  principles  which  it  has  e^er  held 
sacred,  to  disavow,  as  justly  chargeable  to  it,  any  such  wanton, 
cruel  and  unjustifiable  warfare. 

Whatever  unauthorized  irregularity  may  have  been  commit 
ted  by  any  of  its  troops,  it  would  have  been  ready,  acting  on  these 
principles  of  sacred  and  eternal  obligation,  to  disavow,  and  as  far 


iv  APPENBIX. 

as  might  be  practicable,  to  repair.  But  in  the  plan  of  desolating 
warfare  which  your  letter  so  explicitly  makes  known,  and  which 
is  attempted  to  be  excused  on  a  plea  so  utterly  groundless,  the 
president  perceives  a  spirit  of  deep-rooted  hostility,  which,  with 
out  the  evidence  of  such  facts,  he  could  not  have  believed  existed, 
or  would  have  been  carried  to  such  an  extremity. 

For  the  reparation  of  injuries,  of  whatever  nature  they  in  ay 
be,  not  sanctioned  by  the  law  of  nations,  which  the  military  or 
naval  force  of  either  power  may  have  committed,  against  the  other, 
this  government  will  always  be  ready  to  enter  into  reciprocal  ar 
rangements.  It  is  presumed  that  your  government  will  neither 
expect  nor  propose  any  which  are  not  reciprocal. 

Should  your  government  adhere  to  a  system  of  desolation,  so 
contrary  to  the  views  and  practice  of  the  United  States,  so  re 
volting  to  humanity,  and  repugnant  to  the  sentiment  and  usages  of 
the  civilized  world,  whilst  it  will  be  seen  with  the  deepest  regret, 
it  must  and  will  be  met  with  a  determination  and  constancy  be 
coming  a  free  people,  contending  in  a  just  cause  for  their  essen 
tial  rights,  and  their  dearest  interests. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  with  great  consideration,  sir,  your 
most  obedient  humble  servant, 

(Signed)  JAMES  MONROE. 

From  the  National  Intelligencer. 

We  observe  it  mentioned  in  some  prints,  that  the  late  letter 
of  admiral  Cochrane  to  the  secretary  of  state  was  received  before 
the  enemy  entered  Washington.  This  is  not  so.  We  state  the 
fact,  on  the  most  unquestionable  authority,  that  it  did  not  arrive 
in  Washington  until  late  in  the  night  of  the  30th  of  August,  and 
that  it  was  not  received  by  the  secretary  of  state  until  the  morning 
of  the  3 1st. 

The  letter  was  dated  on  the  18th,  probably  the  very  day  the, 
Tonnant  arrived  in  the  Patuxent.  It  affects  to  give  previous  no 
tice  of  an  intention  to  destroy  and  lay  waste  our  towns,  and  yet  is 
mot  even  sent  off  (although  antedated)  until  after  this  purpose 
has  been  accomplished  at  Washington.  This  is  a  very  pretty  little 
trick  played  ofT  by  the  vice-admiral  in  his  first  essay  at  diplomatic 


APPENDIX.  v 

correspondence,  and  we  doubt  not  has  been  matter  of  pleasant 
chuckling  between  himself  and  friend,  that  accomplished  and  high 
bred  gentleman  admiral  George  Cockburn.  It  is  worthy  of  re 
mark,  that  a  near  blood  relation  of  the  vice-admiral's  has  lately 
been  convicted  in  England  and  sentenced  to  the  pillory  for  a  de 
ception  practised  upon  the  public  there.  The  vice  appears  to 
run  through  the  family. 

Vice-admiral  Cochrane  to  the  secretary  of  state. 

His  B.  M.  ship  Tonnant,  in  the  Chesapeake,  Sept.  19,  1814. 
SIR — I  had  the  honour  to  receive  your  letter  of  the  6th  inst. 
this  morning,  in  reply  to  the  one  which  I  addressed  to  you  from 
the  Patuxent. 

As  I  have  no  authority  from  my  government  to  enter  upon 
any  kind  of  discussion  relative  to  the  points  contained  in  your  let 
ter,  I  have  only  to  regret  that  there  does  not  appear  to  be  any 
hope  that  I  shall  be  authorized  to  recall  my  general  order;  which 
has  been  further  sanctioned  by  a  subsequent  request  from  lieu 
tenant-general  sir  George  Provost. 

A  copy  of  your  letter  will  this  day  be  forwarded  by  me  to 
England,  and  until  I  receive  instructions  from  my  government  the 
measures  which  I  have  adopted  must  be  persisted  in:  unless  re 
muneration  be  made  to  the  inhabitants  of  the  Canadas  for  the  in 
juries  they  have  sustained  from  the  outrages  committed  by  the 
troops  of  the  United  States. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 

ALEX.  COOHRANE. 


NO  II. 

ANONYMOUS. 

Ha~uannay  August  8,  1814- 
DEAR  Sin, 

I  EMBRACED  an  opportunity  offered  for  Pensacola,  to  inform 
you,  that  an  expedition  has  sailed  from  Bermuda  for  Mobile,  who 
touched  and  left  this  on  the  1 1th  instant,  under  the  command  of 
colonel  Nicholls  of  the  artillery,  a  brave  officer  well  known  in  the 
European  wars. 


vi  APPENDIX. 

They  touched  here  for  aid  in  gun-boa^s,  small  vessels^  &c. 
and  for  leave  to  land  at  Pensacola,  all  of  which  were  refused  by  the 
captain-general.  However,  I  learn  that  they  are  determined  to 
land  at  Pensacola,  with  or  without  leave,  where  they  will  dis 
embark  their  park  of  artillery.  The  colonel  was  conveyed  with 
his  troops  in  two  sloops  of  war,  the  Hermes,  commanded  by  the 
hon.  W.  H.  Percy,  and  the  Caron,  commanded  by  the  hon.  P. 
Spencer,  who,  with  such  vessels  as  may  be  on  the  station,  will  co 
operate  with  the  land  forces. 

The  brig  Orpheus,  some  time  past,  landed  arms  and  some 
officers  at  Apalachicola,  to  arrange  with  the  Creek  nation  for 
future  operations  against  Mobile,  New  Orleans  and  that  district 
of  the  country,  which  they  effected,  and  caused  the  breaking  off 
the  treaty. 

The  whole  nation  are  ready  to  join  the  British  troops  under 
colonel  Nicholls,  who  will  immediately  on  his  arrival  issue  his 
proclamation,  declaring  all  slaves  who  will  join  their  standard  free 
and  liberated  forever  from  their  masters.  He  will  also  issue  an 
other  to  the  Indians,  promising  all  the  tribes  who  will  join  him,  to 
reinstate  them  in  all  their  lands  taken  from  them  by  the  United 
States,  and  to  guarantee  the  same  to  them  forever.  Having  thus 
prepared  the  minds  of  the  negroes  and  Indians,  he  will,  on  the  ar 
rival  of  two  or  three  black  regiments,  from  Nassau,  See.  of  fine 
troops,  calculated  for  that  climate  (v/ho  may  pass  by  this  next 
week)  push  for  New  Orleans — first  having  secured  and  fortified 
Mobile  point,  and  taken  Mobile,  as  well  as  placed  a  force  at  every 
point  on  the  lakes,  of  any  importance,  as  well  as  Plaquemines,  in 
order  to  cut  off  all  trade  of  the  Mississippi. 

This  force  with  him  is  small,  but  he  will  soon  be  re-enforced 
from  Bermuda,  Sec. — the  flying  artillery  appears  well  calculated 
for  his  operations  in  that  country. 

When  I  have  stated  these  facts,  it  will  become  your  duty,  and 
the  duty  of  every  citizen  in  the  state,  who  has  property  or  a  fami 
ly  to  protect  and  defend,  to  rise  in  mass,  and  defeat  this  most  damn 
able  and  infamous  plan  of  burning  and  carnage,  the  most  horrible 
and  atrocious  ever  before  projected  by  a  civilized  nation. 

You  have  not  a  moment  to  lose;  because  if  they  get  a  footing, 
it  will  be  very  difficult  to  get  clear  of  them.  The  commander  oi" 


APPENDIX,  vii 

'..he  sea-forces,  the  hon.  W.  H.  Percy,  is  a  very  young  man,  a 
Scotchman,  and  mild  and  gentlemanly,  the  son  of  lord  Beverly; 
but  the  colonel  is  an  impatient  blustering  Irishman,  who  was  go 
vernor  of  Andant,  in  the  German  seas,  and  apparently  brave  and 
cruel. 

I  have  only  a  moment  to  insist  upon  you  again  to  save  the 
state  and  the  property  of  the  planters  at  this  awful  crisis. 


NO.  III. 

PROCLAMATION, 

By  lieutenant-colonel  Edward  Nic/iolls^  commanding  his  Britannic 

majesty's  forces  in  the  Floridas. 

NATIVES  of  Louisiana!  on  you  the  first  call  is  made  to  assist 
in  liberating  from  a  faithless,  imbecile  government,  your  paternal 
soil:  Spaniards,  Frenchmen,  Italians,  and  British,  whether  settled 
or  residing  for  a  time,  in  Louisiana,  on  you,  also,  I  call  to  aid  me  in 
this  just  cause:  the  American  usurpation  in  this  country  must  be 
abolished,  and  the  lawful  owners  of  the  soil  put  in  possession.  I 
am  at  the  head  of  a  large  body  of  Indians,  well  armed,  disciplined, 
and  commanded  by  British  officers — a  good  train  of  artillery  with 
every  requisite,  seconded  by  the  powerful  aid  of  a  numerous  Bri 
tish  and  Spanish  squadron  of  ships  and  vessels  of  war.  Be  not 
alarmed,  inhabitants  of  the  country,  at  our  approach;  the  same  good 
faith  and  disinterestedness  which  has  distinguished  the  conduct  of 
Britons  in  Europe,  accompanies  them  here;  you  will  have  no  fear 
of  litigious  taxes  imposed  on  you  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  on  an 
unnatural  and  unjust  war;  your  property,  your  laws,  the  peace  and 
tranquillity  of  your  country,  will  be  guaranteed  to  you  by  men  who 
will  suffer  no  infringement  of  theirs;  rest  assured  that  these  brave 
red  men  only  burn  with  an  ardent  desire  of  satisfaction,  for  the 
wrongs  they  have  suffered  from  the  Americans,  to  join  you  in  liber 
ating  these  southern  provinces  from  their  yoke,  and  drive  them  into 
those  limits  formerly  prescribed  by  my  sovereign.  The  Indians 
have  pledged  themselves,  in  the  most  solemn  manner,  not  to  injure, 
in  the  slightest  degree,  the  persons  or  properties  of  any  but  enemies; 
to  their  Spanish  or  English  fathers,  a  flag  over  any  door,  whether 
Spanish,  French,  or  British,  will  be  a  certain  protection,  nor  dare 
any  Indian  put  his  foot  on  the  threshold  thereof,  under  penalty  of 


viii  APPENDIX. 

death  from  his  own  countrymen;  not  even  an  enemy  will  an  Indian 
put  to  death,  except  resisting  in  arms,  and  as  for  injuring  helpless 
women  and  children,  the  red  men,  by  their  good  conduct  and  treat 
ment  to  them,  will  (if  it  be  possible)  make  the  Americans  blush  for 
their  more  inhuman  conduct  lately  on  the  Escambia,  and  within  a 
neutral  territory. 

Inhabitants  of  Kentucky,  you  have  too  long  borne  with  griev 
ous  impositions — the  whole  brunt  of  the  war  has  fallen  on  your 
brave  sons;  be  imposed  on  no  longer,  but  either  range  yourselves 
under  the  standard  of  your  forefathers,  or  observe  a  strict  neu 
trality;  if  you  comply  with  either  of  these  offers,  whatever  provi 
sions  you  send  down,  will  be  paid  for  in  dollars,  and  the  safety  of 
the  persons  bringing  it,  as  well  as  the  free  navigation  of  the  Mis 
sissippi,  guaranteed  to  you. 

Men  of  Kentucky,  let  me  call  to  your  view  (and  I  trust  to 
your  abhorrence)  the  conduct  of  those  factions,  which  hurried  you 
into  this  civil,  unjust,  and  unnatural  war,  at  a  time  when  Great 
Britain  was  straining  every  nerve  in  defence  of  her  own  and  the 
liberties  of  the  world — when  the  bravest  of  her  sons  were  fighting 
and  bleeding  in  so  sacred  a  eause— -when  she  was  spending  mil 
lions  of  her  treasure  in  endeavouring  to  pull  down  one  of  the  most 
formidable  and  dangerous  tyrants  that  ever  disgraced  the  form  of 
man — when  groaning  Europe  was  almost  in  her  last  gasp — when 
Britons  alone  showed  an  undaunted  front — basely  did  those  assas 
sins  endeavour  to  stab  her  from  the  rear;  she  has  turned  on  them, 
renovated  from  the  bloody  but  successful  struggle — Europe  is 
happy  and  free,  and  she  now  hastens  justly  to  avenge  the  unpro 
voked  insult.  Show  them  that  you  are  not  collectively  unjust; 
leave  that  contemptible  few  to  shift  for  themselves;  let  those  slaves 
of  tke  tyrant  send  an  embassy  to  Elba,  and  implore  his  aid;  but 
let  every  honest,  upright  American,  spurn  them  with  united  con 
tempt.  After  the  experience  of  twenty-one  years,  can  you  any 
longer  support  those  brawlers  for  liberty,  who  call  it  freedom,  when 
themselves  are  free;  be  no  longer  their  dupes — accept  of  my  of 
fers-— every  thing  I  have  promised  in  this  paper  I  guarantee  to  you, 
»n  the  sacred  honour  of  a  British  officer. 

Giren  under  my  hand  at  my  head-quarters, 
Pensacola,  this  «9lh  day  of  August,  1814. 

EDWARD  NICHOLLS, 


APPENDIX.  ix 

£Sward  Nteholls  to  Mr.  Lajfite,  or  the  commandant  at  Barataria. 
Head-quart  erS)  Pensacola^  August  31,  1814. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  arrived  in  the  Floridas  for  the  purpose  of  annoying 

the  only  enemy  Great  Britain  has  in  the  world,  as  France  and  Eng 
land  are  now  friends.  I  call  on  you,  with  your  brave  followers,  to 
enter  into  the  service  of  Great  Britain,  in  which  you  shall  have 
tke  rank  of  a  captain;  lands  will  be  given  to  you  all,  in  proportion 
to  your  respective  ranks,  on  a  peace  taking  place,  and  I  invite  you 
on  the  following  terms.  Your  property  shall  be  guaranteed  to  you, 
and  your  persons  protected:  in  return  for  which  I  ask  you  to  cease 
all  hostilities  against  Spain,  or  the  allies  of  Great  Britain. — Your 
ships  and  vessels  to  be  placed  under  the  orders  of  the  command 
ing  officer  on  this  station,  until  the  cbmmander-in-chief's  pleasure 
is  known;  but  I  guarantee  their  fair  value  at  all  events.  I  here 
with  inclose  you  a  copy  of  my  proclamation  to  the  inhabitants  of 
Louisiana,  which  will,  I  trust,  point  out  to  you  the  honourable  in 
tentions  of  my  government.  You  may  be  an  useful  assistant  to 
me,  in  forwarding  them;  therefore,  if  you  determine,  lose  no  time. 
The  bearer  of  this,  captain  M'WilHams,  will  satisfy  you  on  any 
other  point  you  may  be  anxious  to  learn,  as  will  captain  Lockyer 
of  the  Sophia,  who  brings  him  to  you.  We  have  a  powerful  re- 
enforcement  on  its  way  here,  and  I  hope  to  cut  out  some  other 
Work  for  the  Americans  than  oppressing  the  inhabitants  of  Louisi 
ana.  Be  expeditious  in  your  resolves,  and  rely  on  the  verity  of 
%  Your  very  humble  servant, 

EDWARD  NICHOLLS. 

JBy  the  hon.  William  Henry  Percy ,  cap  fain  of  his  majesty*®  shift 

Hermes,  and  senior  officer  in  the  gulf  of  Mexico. 
HAVING  understood  that  some  British  merchantmen  have 
been  detained,  taken  into,  aod  sold  by  the  inhabitants  of  Barataria, 
I  have  directed  captain  Lockyer,  of  his  majesty's  sloop  Sophia,  to 
proceed  to  that  place,  and  inquire  into  the  circumstances,  with 
positive  orders  to  demand  instant  restitution,  and  in  case  of  refusal 
to  destroy  to  his  utmost  every  vessel  there,  as  well  as  to  carry  de 
struction  over  the  whole  place,  and  at  the  same  time  to  assure 
him  of  the  co-operation  of  all  his  majesty's  naval  forces  on  this  sta 
tion.  I  trust  at  the  same  time,  that  the  inhabitants  of  Barataria. 

h 


*'  APPENDIX. 

consulting  their  own  interest,  will  not  make  it  necessary  to  pro 
ceed  to  such  extremities — I  hold  out  at  the  same  time,  a  war  in 
stantly  destructive  to  them;  and  on  the  other  hand,  should  they  be 
inclined  to  assist  Great  Britain  in  her  just  and  unprovoked  war 
against  the  United  States,  the  security  of  their  property,  the  bles 
sings  of  the  British  constitution — and  should  they  be  inclined  to 
settle  on  this  continent,  lands  will,  at  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  be 
allotted  to  them  in  his  majesty's  colonies  in  America.  In  return 
for  all  these  concessions  on  the  part  of  Great  Britain,  I  expect 
that  the  directions  of  their  armed  vessels  will  be  put  into  my  hands 
(fof  which  they  will  be  remunerated,)  the  instant  cessation  of 
hostilities  against  the  Spanish  government,  and  the  restitution  of 
any  undisposed  property  of  that  nation. 

Should  any  inhabitants  be  inclined  to  volunteer  their  services 
into  his  majesty's  force's,  either  naval  or  military,  for  limited 
service,  they  will  be  received;  and  if  any  British  subject,  being  at 
Barataria,  wishes  to  return  to  his  native  country,  he  will,  on  join 
ing  his  majesty's  service,  receive  a  free  pardon. 

Given  under  my  hand  on  board  H.  M.  ship  Hermes, 
Pensacola,  this  1st  day  of  September,  1814. 

W.  H,  PERCY, 
Cap  fain  and  senior  officer. 

Letter  from  the  hon.    W.  H.  Percy,  captain  of  his  majesty's  shift 
Hermes,  and  senior  officer  in  the  gulf  of  Mexico,  to  Nicholas 
Lockyer,  escj.  commander  of  H.  M.  Sloop  Sophia. 
SIR, 

You  are  hereby  required  and  directed,  after  having  received 
on  board  an  officer  belonging  to  the  first  battalion  of  Royal  colo 
nial  marines,  to  proceed  in  his  majesty's  sloop  under  your  com 
mand,  without  a  moment's  loss  of  time,  for  Barataria. 

On  your  arrival  at  that  place,  you  will  communicate  with  the 
chief  persons  there— you  will  urge  them  to  throw  themselves  un 
der  the  protection  of  Great  Britain — and  should  you  find  them  in 
clined  to  pursue  such  a  step,  you  will  hold  out  to  them  that  their 
property  shall  be  secured  to  them,  that  they  shall  be  considered 
British  subjects,  and  at  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  lands  within  his 
majesty's  colonies  in  America,  will  be  allotted  to  them  in  return 


APPENDIX.  xi 

for  these  concessions.  You  will  insist  on  an  immediate  cessation 
of  hostilities  against  Spain,  and  in  case  they  should  have  any  Spa 
nish  property  not  disposed  of,  that  it  be  restored,  and  that  they  put 
their  naval  force  into  the  hands  of  the  senior  officer  here,  until  the 
commander-in-chief Js  pleasure  is  known.  In  the  event  of  their 
not  being  inclined  to  act  offensively  against  the  United  States,  you 
will  do  all  in  your  power  to  persuade  them  to  a  strict  neutrality, 
and  still  endeavour  to  put  a  stop  to  their  hostilities  against  Spain. 
Should  you  succeed  completely  in  the  object  for  which  you  are 
sent,  you  will  concert  such  measures  for  the  annoyance  of  the  ene 
my  as  ycu  judge  best  from  circumstances; — having  an  eye  to  the 
junction  of  their  small  armed  vessels  with  me  for  the  capture  of 
Mobile,  8cc.  You  will  at  all  events  yourself  join  me  with  the  ut 
most  despatch  at  this  post,  with  the  accounts  of  your  success. 

Given  under  my  hand  on  board  his  majesty's  ship  Hermes,  at 
Pensacola,  this  30th  day  of  August,  1814. 

W.  H.  PERCY,  capt, 


NO.  IV. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  to  Cafitain  Lockyer. 

Barataria,  kth  September,  1814, 
SIR, 

THE  confusion  which  prevailed  in  our  camp  yesterday  and 
this  morning,  and  of  which  you  have  a  complete  knowledge,  has 
prevented  me  from  answering  in  a  precise  manner  to  the  object 
of  your  mission;  nor  even  at  this  moment  can  I  give  you  all  the 
satisfaction  that  you  desire;  however,  if  you  could  grant  me  a 
fortnight,  I  would  be  entirely  at  your  disposal  at  the  end  of  that 
time — this  delay  is  indispensable  to  send  away  the  three  persons 
who  have  alone  occasioned  all  the  disturbance — the  two  who 
were  the  most  troublesome  are  to  leave  this  place  in  eight  days, 
and  the  other  is  to  go  to  town — the  remainder  of  the  time  is  ne 
cessary  to  enable  me  to  put  my  affairs  in  order — you  may  com 
municate  with  me,  in  sending  a  boat  to  the  eastern  point  of  the  pass> 
where  I  will  be  found.  You  have  inspired  me  with  more  conn\- 
dence  than  the  admiral,  your  superior  officer,  could  have  done 
iumself;  with  you  alone  I  wish  to  deal,  and  from  you  also  I  will 


xii  APPENDIX. 

claim,  in  due  time,  the  reward  of  the  services  which  I  may  render 
to  you. 

Be  so  good,  sir,  as  to  favour  me  with  an  answer,  and  believe 
me  yours,  &c.  LAFFITE. 


NO.  V. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  to  Mr.  Blanque. 

Barataria,  4th  September,  1814. 
SIR, 

THOUGH  proscribed  by  my  adoptive  country,  I  will  never  let  slip 
any  occasion  of  serving  her,  or  of  proving  that  she  has  never  ceased 
to  be  dear  to  me.  Of  this  you  will  here  see  a  convincing  proof- 
Yesterday,  the  3d  of  September,  there  appeared  here,  under  a  flag 
of  truce,  a  boat  coming  from  an  English  brig,  at  anchor  about  two 
leagues  from  the  pass.  Mr.  Nicholas  Lockyer,  a  British  officer  of 
high  rank,  delivered  me  the  following  papers,  two  directed  to  me, 
a  proclamation,  and  the  admiral's  instructions  to  that  officer,  all 
herewith  enclosed.  You  will  see  from  their  contents  the  advan 
tages  I  might  have  derived  from  that  kind  of  association.  I  may 
have  evaded  the  payment  of  duties  to  the  custom  house;  but  I 
have  never  ceased  to  be  a  good  citizen;  and  all  the  offence  I  have 
committed,  I  was  forced  to  by  certain  vices  in  our  laws.  In  short, 
sir,  I  make  you  the  depository  of  the  secret  on  which  perhaps  de 
pends  the  tranquillity  of  our  country;  please  to  make  such  use  of  it 
as  your  judgment  may  direct.  I  might  expatiate  on  this  proof  of 
patriotism,  but  I  let  the  fact  speak  for  itself.  I  presume,  how 
ever,  to  hope  that  such  proceedings  may  obtain  amelioration  of 
the  situation  of  my  unhappy  brother,  with  which  view  I  recom 
mend  him  particularly  to  your  influence.  It  is  in  the  bosom  of  a 
just  man,  of  a  true  American,  endowed  with  all  other  qualities  that 
are  honoured  in  society,  that  I  think  I  am  depositing  the  interests 
of  our  common  country,  and  what  particularly  concerns  myself. 

Our  enemies  have  endeavoured  to  work  on  me  by  a  motive 
which  few  men  would  have  resisted.  They  represented  to  me  a  bro 
ther  in  irons,  a  brother  who  is  to  me  very  dear!  whose  deliverer  I 
might  become,  and  I  declined  the  proposal.  Well  persuaded  of  his 
innocence,  I  am  free  from  apprehension  as  to  the  issue  of  a  trial; 


APPENDIX.  xiii 

imt  he  is  sick  and  not  in  a  place  where  he  can  receive  the  assist 
ance  his  state  requires.  I  recommend  him  to  you,  in  the  name  of 
humanity. 

As  to  the  flag  of  truce,  I  have  done  with  regard  to  it  everything 
that  prudence  suggested  to  me  at  the  time.  I  have  asked  fifteen 
days  to  determine,  assigning  such  plausible  pretexts,  that  I  hope 
the  term  will  be  granted.  I  am  waiting  for  the  British  officer's 
answer,  and  for  yours  to  this.  Be  so  good  as  to  assist  me  with 
your  judicious  counsel  in  so  weighty  an  affair. 

I  have  the  honour  to  salute  you, 

J.  LAFFITU. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  to  Mr.  Blanque. 

Grande  Terre,  7th  September,  1814. 
SIR, 

You  will  always  find  me  eager  to  evince  my  devotedness  to 
the  good  of  the  country,  of  which  I  endeavoured  to  give  some 
proof  in  my  letter  of  the  4th,  which  I  make  no  doubt  you  receiv 
ed.  Amongst  other  papers  that  have  fallen  into  my  hands,  I  send 
you  a  scrap  which  appears  to  me  of  sufficient  importance  to  merit 
your  attention.* 

Since  the  departure  of  the  officer  who  came  with  the  flag  of 
truce,  his  ship,  with  two  other  ships  of  war  have  remained  on  the 
coast,  within  sight.  Doubtless  this  point  is  considered  as  impor 
tant.  We  have  hitherto  kept  on  a  respectable  defensive;  if,  how 
ever,  the  British  attach  to  the  possession  of  this  place,  the  impor 
tance  they  give  us  room  to  suspect  they  do,  they  may  employ 
means  above  our  strength.  I  know  not  whether,  in  that  case,  pro 
posals  of  intelligence  with  government  would  be  out  of  season. 
It  is  always  from  my  high  opinion  of  your  enlightened  mind,  that 
I  request  you  to  advise  me  in  this  affair. 

I  have  the  honour  to  salute  you, 

J.  LAFFITE. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite  to  his  excellency  W.  C.  C.  Claiborne. 
SIR, 

IN  the  firm  persuasion  that  the  choice  made  of  you  to  fill  the 
office  of  first  magistrate  of  this  state,  was  dictated  by  the  esteem  of 

*  This  piece  is  numbered  II  in  this  Appendix. 


xiv  APPENDIX. 

your  fellow-citizens,  and  was  conferred  011  merit,  I  confidently  ad 
dress  you  on  an  affair  on  which  may  depend  the  safety  of  this 
country. 

I  offer  to  you  to  restore  to  this  state  several  citizens,  who  per 
haps  in  your  eyes  have  lost  that  sacred  title.  I  offer  you  them, 
however,  such  as  you  could  wish  to  find  them,  ready  to  exert  their 
utmost  efforts  in  defence  of  the  country.  This  point  of  Louisiana, 
which  I  occupy,  is  of  great  importance  in  the  present  crisis.  I 
tender  my  services  to  defend  it;  and  the  only  reward  I  ask  is  that 
a  stop  be  put  to  the  proscription  against  me  and  my  adherents,  by 
an  act  of  oblivion  for  all  that  has  been  done  hitherto.  I  am  the 
stray  sheep,  wishing  to  return  to  the  sheepfold.  If  you  were 
thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  nature  of  my  offencei,  I  should 
appear  to  you  much  less  guilty,  and  still  worthy  to  discharge  the 
duties  of  a  good  citizen.  I  have  never  sailed  under  any  flag  but 
that  of  the  republic  of  Carthagena,  and  my  vessels  are  perfectly 
regular  in  that  respect.  If  I  could  have  brought  my  lawful  prizes 
into  the  ports  of  this  state,  I  should  not  have  employed  the  illicit 
ineans  that  have  caused  me  to  be  proscribed.  I  decline  saying 
more  on  the  subject,  until  I  have  the  honour  of  your  excellen 
cy's  answer,  which  I  am  persuaded  can  be  dictated  only  by  wis 
dom.  Should  your  answer  not  be  favourable  to  my  ardent  de 
sires,  I  declare  to  you  that  I  will  instantly  leave  the  country,  to 
avoid  the  imputation  of  having  co-operated  to  wards  an  invasion  on 
this  point,  which  cannot  fail  to  take  place,  and  to  rest  secure  in  the 
acquittal  of  my  own  conscience. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be 

Your  excellency's,  Sec. 

J.  LAFFITE. 


NO.  VI. 

Letter  from  Mr.  Laffite,   he  eldsr^  to,  Mr.  jBlangue, 

Grande  Terrc,  \Qth  Sefittmber,  1814 
SIR, 

ON  my  arrival  here,  I  was  informed  of  all  the  occurrences 
that  have  taken  place;  I  think  I  may  justly  commend  my  bro 
ther's  conduct  under  such  difficult  circumstances.  I  am  per- 


APPENDIX.  xv 

suaded  he  could  not  have  made  a  better  choice,  than  in  making 
you  the  depositary  of  the  papers  that  were  sent  to  us,  and  which 
may  be  of  great  importance  to  the  state.  Being  fully  determined 
to  follow  the  plan  that  may  reconcile  us  with  the  government,  I 
herewith  send  you  a  letter  directed  to  his  excellency  the  gover 
nor,  which  I  submit  to  your  discretion,  to  deliver  or  not,  as  you 
may  think  proper.  I  have  not  yet  been  honoured  with  an  answer 
from  you.  The  moments  are  preciovis;  pray  send  me  an  answer 
that  may  serve  to  direct  my  measures  in  the  circumstances  in 
which  Ifmd  myself. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

P.  LAFFITE. 

P.  S.  1  join  with  this  the  letter  for  Mr.  Claiborne,  which  I 
submit  to  your  judgment.  Should  you  think,  from  its  contents, 
that  it  may  be  delivered  or  communicated  to  him,  you  will  do 
either,  as  you  think  proper.  I  send  it  to  you  under  cover;  after 
having  read  it,  I  request  you  to  seal  it. 


NO.  VII. 

Circular  le  tttr  to  the  governors  of  the  several  states, 

"  War  de/iarlmenfj  July  4(h.  1814. 
«  SIR, 

"  The  late  pacification  in  Europe,  offers  to  the  enemy  a 
large  disposable  force,  both  naval  and  military,  and  with  it  the 
means  of  giving  to  the  war  here  a  character  of  new  and  increased 
activity  and  extent — without  knowing  with  certainty,  that  such 
will  be  its  application,  and  still  less  that  any  particular  point  or 
points  will  become  objects  of  attack,  the  president  has  deemed  it 
advisable,  as  a  measure  of  precaution,  to  strengthen  ourselves  on 
the  line  of  the  Atlantic,  and  (as  the  principal  means  of  doing  this 
will  be  found  in  the  militia)  to  invite  the  executives  of  certain 
states,  to  organize  and  hold  in  readiness  for  immediate  service,  a 
corps  of  ninety-three  thousand,  five  hundred  men,  under  the  laws 
of  the  28th  of  February  1795,  and  the  18th  of  April  1814. 

"  The  enclosed  detail,  will  show  your  excellency,  what,  un 
der  this  requisition,  will  be  the  quota  of  your  state. 


xvi  APPENDIX. 

"  As  far  as  volunteer  uniform  corps  can  be  formed,  they  will 
be  preferred. 

"  The  expediency  of  regarding  (as  well  in  the  designation  of 
the  militia,  as  of  their  places  of  rendezvous)  the  points,  the  im 
portance  or  exposure  of  which,  will  be  most  likely  to  attract  the 
views  of  tke  enemy,  need  not  be  suggested. 

"  A  report  of  the  organization  of  your  quota,  when  complet 
ed,  and  of  the  place  or  places  of  rendezvous  will  be  acceptable. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be.  See. 
(Signed)  JOHN  ARMSTRONG." 

Of  the  force  thus  required  to  be  holden  in  readiness,  the 
quota  assigned  to  Georgia,  was  three  regiments,  and  one  battalion 
— viz.  three  hundred  and  fifty  artillery,  three  thousand  one  hun 
dred  and  fifty  infantry,  total,  three  thousand  five  hundred.     To 
Kentucky  five  regiments,  and  one  battalion,  viz.  five  thousand  five 
hundred  infantry.  To  Tennessee,  two  regiments,  and  one  battalion 
— viz.  two  thousand  five  hundred  infantry.  To  the  Mississippi  ter 
ritory  one  battalion,  viz.  five  hundred  infantry;-— and  Louisiana, 
was  required  to  furnish  one  regiment,  viz.  one  thousand  infantry. 
The  letter  of  the  secretary  at  war  reached  governor  Clai- 
borne  early  in  August,  and  by  him  was  promptly  attended  to.  On 
the  6th  of  March,  he  apportioned  the  quota  assigned  to  Louisiana, 
between  the  first  and  second  division  of  militia  of  the  state. 

Extract  of  a  letter  from  major-general  Jackson  to  governor  Clai* 
borne,  dated  head-quarters,  7th  military  district,  fort  Jackson 
Zlst  July,  1814. 

THIS  morning  I  was  presented  with  a  new  British  musket 
given  to  a  friendly  Indian  by  those  at  Apalachicola  bay.  Informa 
tion  has  been  received  by  this  fellow  tending  to  confirm  the  ru 
mour  of  a  considerable  force  having  landed  there  with  a  large 
quantity  of  arms  and  other  munitions  of  war,  and  with  intentions 
to  strike  a  decisive  blow  against  the  lower  country.  Mobile  and 
Orleans  are  of  such  importance  as  to  hold  out  strong  inducements 
to  them,  at  such  a  crisis:  I  must  look  to  the  constitutional  autho 
rities  of  the  state  of  Louisiana  for  such  support  as  will  be  effective 
in  any  emergency,  and  I  trust  this  support  will  be  afforded  with 
promptitude  whenever  required. 


APPENDIX.  xvii 

NO.  VIII. 

Militia  general  orders,  head-quarters. 

New  Orleans ,  August  6th,  1814. 

IN  a  letter  from  the  honourable  the  secretary  at  war,  under 
date  of  the  4th  ultimo,  the  governor  of  Louisiana  has  received  the 
orders  of  the  president  of  the  United  States,  to  organize  and  hold 
in  readiness  for  immediate  service,  a  corps  of  a  thousand  militia 
infantry,  being  the  quota  assigned  to  this  state,  of  a  requisition  for 
ninety-three  thousand  five  hundred  men,  made  on  the  executives 
of  the  several  states,  under  the  laws  of  the  28th  February  1795, 
and  18th  of  April  1814,  the  governor  and  commander-in-chief  in 
consequence  directs,  that  one  complete  regiment,  a  thousand  strong, 
to  be  composed  of  two  battalions  1st  and  2nd  be  organized  and 
equipped  for  service,  with  the  least  possible  delay.  The  first  divi 
sion  of  militia  will  furnish  four  full  companies,  each  company  to 
consist  of  one  captain,  one  first  lieutenant,  two  second  lieutenant1-, 
four  Serjeants,  four  corporals,  one  drummer,  one  fifer,  and  ninety 
privates — the  whole  to  be  apportioned  among  the  several  brigades 
or  regiments  attached  to  the  first  division  by  the  major-general 
commanding  the  same,  and  under  his  orders  to  be  organized  on 
or  before  the  4th  of  September  next,  and  due  returns  made  to  the 
ad  j  utant-  gene  ral . 

The  second  division  of  militia  will  furnish  five  full  compa 
nies — each  company  to  consist  as  aforesaid  of  one  captain,  one 
first  lieutenant,  two  second  lieutenants,  four  Serjeants,  four  corpo 
rals,  one  drummer,  one  fifer,  and  ninety  privates — the  whole  to  be 
apportioned  among  the  several  brigades  or  regiments  attached  to 
the  second  division  by  the  major-general  commanding  the  same; 
and  under  his  orders  to  be  completely  organized  on  or  before  the 
15th  September  next,  and  due  returns  made  of  the  same. 

In  all  cases  volunteer  uniform  companies  of  the  strength  re 
quired  will  be  preferred,  and  a  tender  of  service  from  all  such 
promptly  accepted  in  assigning  the  quota  of  the  first  and  second  di 
vision.  The  commander-in-chief,  as  was  his  duty,  has  taken  into  view 
the  exposure  of  particular  points,  and  the  amount  and  description 
of  population;  like  considerations  will  influence  the  major-ge.  erals 
in  making  apportionment  among  the  several  brigades  and  regi- 


APPENDIX. 

ments.  The  returns  to  the  adjutant- general  will  give  the  names 
of  the  officers,  non-commissioned  officers  and  privates,  and  par* 
ticularly  state  the  number  and  condition  of  the  arms,  in  order  that 
provision  may  be  made  for  the  supply  of  deficiencies.  Each  non 
commissioned  officer  and  private  to  furnish  himself  with  a  knap 
sack  and  blanket.  The  colonel-commandant  of  the  regiment,  and 
the  medical  staff  will  be  named  by  the  comrnander-in-chief;  the 
major  of  the  first  battalion  to  be  selected  by  the  major-general  of 
the  second  division;  the  major  of  the  second  battalion  by  the  ma 
jor-general  of  the  first  division,  and  the  paymaster,  adjutant,  and 
quartermaster  of  the  regiment  by  the  colonel-commandant. 

The  corps  thus  to  be  organized  and  kept  in  readiness  for 
active  duty,  will  on  the  further  commands  of  the  president,  or  on 
the  requisition  of  any  officer  acting  under  his  authority,  be  order 
ed  into  the  service  of  the  United  States,  for  a  term  not  exceeding 
six  months  after  their  arrival  at  the  point  of  rendezvous  unless 
sooner  discharged.  The  point  of  rendezvous  for  the  detachment 
drawn  from  the  first  division,  will  be  the  city  of  New  Orleans,  and 
from  the  detachment  drawn  from  the  second  division,  the  town  of 
Baton  Rouge. 

"  The  late  pacification  in  Europe  (says  the  secretary  at  war) 
offers  to  the  enemy  a  large  disposable  force,  both  naval  and  mili 
tary,  and  with  it  the  means  of  giving  to  the  war  here  a  character 
of  new  and  increased  activity  and  extent. 

"  Without  knowing  with  certainty,  that  such  will  be  its  appli 
cation,  and  still  less  that*  any  particular  point  or  points,  will  be 
come  objects  of  attack,  the  president  has  deemed  advisable,  as  a 
measure  of  precaution,  to  strengthen  ourselves  on  the  line  of  the 
Atlantic.'*  To  these  just  reflections,  the  commander-in-chief  will 
only  add  his  firm  reliance,  that  Louisiana  will  cheerfully  partici 
pate  with  the  sister  states  in  whatever  toils  or  dangers,  the  safety 
of  our  common  country  shall  advise. 

The  desire  manifested  by  the  United  States  to  sheathe  the 
sword,  on  terms  alike  honourable  to  both  parties,  may  indeed  be 
met  with  a  correspondent  disposition.  It  is  not  easy  to  believe, 
that  a  nation  should  be  so  wholly  regardless  of  duty  to  herself, 
as  always  to  reject  the  claims  of  justice — but  let  us  not  be  so  far 
deluded  with  a  hope  of  peace,  as  to  leave  our  country  uncovered 


APPENDIX.  xix 

and  unprotected.  If  the  latest  reports  from  Europe  are  to  be  ac 
credited,  the  enemy  had  determined  on  the  most  vigorous  prose 
cution  of  the  war — it  is  added,  that  this  section  of  the  union  was 
to  be  attacked  with  design"  of  wresting  Louisiana  from  the  hands 
of  the  United  States  and  restoring  it  to  Spain." 

A  project  so  chimerical  illy  comports  with  that  character  for 
wisdom,  to  which  the  English  government  aspires,  nor  is  it  be 
lieved  to  be  seriously  contemplated.  That  the  bare  rumour, 
however,  of  such  a  design  should  awaken  some  anxiety,  is  cause 
of  no  surprise.  But  if  there  be  individuals  so  much  deceived,  as 
to  suppose  its  accomplishment  possible,  they  are  cautioned  against 
being  instrumental  in  deceiving  others.  The  principles  of  the 
American  government,  no  less  than  the  interest  and  honour  of  the 
American  people  forbid  the  relinquishment  of  one  tenth  of  the 
American  territory.  Whilst  the  western  rivers  flow,  no  foreign 
power  can  hold  or  detach  Louisiana  from  the  United  States.  She 
may  indeed  be  temporarily  exposed  to  an  invading  foe,  but  until 
by  some  convulsion  of  nature  that  numerous,  gallant,  and  hardy 
race  of  men,  inhabiting  the  vast  tract  of  country  watered  by  the 
tributary  streams  of  the  Mississippi,  shall  become  extinct,  the  po 
litical  destiny  of  Louisiana  is  placed  beyond  the  possibility  of 
change.  Her  connexion,  interest  and  government  must  remain 
American.  We  however  do  not  solely  rely  for  security  on  our 
northern  and  western  brethren.  We  shall  not  be  wanting  iu  duty 
to  ourselves.  The  commander-in-chief  therefore  avails  himself 
of  this  occasion,  to  invite  the  officers  thoughout  the  state,  and 
particularly  colonels  of  regiments,  and  commandants  of  separate 
corps,  to  be  faithful  and  diligent  in  the  discharge  of  their  respec 
tive  duties.  He  orders  the  several  regimental,  battalion  and  com= 
pany  musters,  as  prescribed  by  law  to  be  regularly  holden,  and 
every  effort  made  to  introduce  order  and  discipline.  If  the  war 
continues,  we  cannot  hope  for  exemption  from  its  calamities. 

In  case  of  invasion,  the  whole  militia  will  be  ordered  to  front 
the  enemy — if  our  homes  and  fire-sides  are  menaced,  union,  zeal, 
and  mutual  confidence  should  warm  every  heart  and  strengthen 
every  arm. 

By  order  of  his  excellency  William  C.  C.  Claiborne,  gover 
nor  and  commander-in-chief. 

(Signed)  A- 


xx  APPENDIX. 

NO.  IX. 

Extract  of  a  letter  from  major -general  Jackson  to  governor  Clai- 

borne,  dated  fort  Jackson,  August  \5th,  1815. 
INFORMATION  this  moment  received  by  express  from  Alaba 
ma  Heights,  bringing  me  a  letter  from  Pensacola,  added  to  the  in 
telligence  received  by  captain  Gordon,  who  was  the  bearer  of  a 
letter  from  me  to  the  governor  'of  Pensacola,  makes  it  necessary, 
that  all  the  forces  allotted  for  the  7th  military  district,  should  be 
held  in  a  state  of  preparation  to  march  to  any  point  required  at  a 
moment's  warning. 

NO.  X. 

Militia  general  orders,  head-quarters, 

.Yew   Orleans,   September  5th,  1814, 

MAJOR-GENERAL  JACKSON  acting  under  the  authority  of  the 
president,  having  demanded  the  immediate  service  in  the  field  of 
the  whole  corps  of  Louisiana  militia,  directed  to  be  holden  in 
readiness  for  service,  under  the  general  orders  of  the  6th  ult.  the 
governor  and  commander-in-chief  directs  that  the  officers,  non 
commissioned  officers  and  privates,  drawn  from  the  first,  second, 
third,  fourth,  and  fifth  regiments  under  the  orders  aforesaid,  ren 
dezvous  in  New  Orleans,  on  Saturday  the  10th  instant,  at  10 
o'clock,  A.  M.  in  the  enclosure  in  front  of  the  barracks,  where,  be 
ing  organized  into  companies  under  the  orders  of  major-general 
Villere,  in  manner  heretofore  directed,  they  will  be  inspected  by 
major  Hughes,  inspector-general  of  the  seventh  military  district, 
and  mustered  into  the  service  of  the  United  States,  and  quartered 
in  or  near  New  Orleans,  until  further  orders. 

Every  individual  will  be  punctual  in  his  attendance:  those,  if 
if  any  there  be,  who  may  be  prevented  by  severe  indisposition, 
will  send  well  attested  certificates  of  the  fact,  or  they  will  be  re 
ported  as  delinquents.  Those  who  may  claim  exemption  on  the 
ground  of  bodily  infirmity  (and  some  few  have  exhibited  such 
claims)  will  attend  at  the  rendezvous,  where  they  will  be  examined 
by  a  surgeon,  upon  whose  report  they  will  be  rejected  or  passed 
by  the  inspector  as  justice  shall  dictate.  Privates,  wishing  to  serve 
by  substitutes,  will  attend  with  the  same,  being  previously  instruct 
ed  that  no  substitute  will  be  received  but  an  able-bodied  man. 


APPENDIX.  xxi 

The  time  of  rendezvous  for  detachments  drawn  from  the  more 
distant  counties,  will  be  fixed  in  after  orders. 

(Signed)  W.  C.  C.  CLAIBORNE. 

AFTER  GENERAL  ORDERS. 

' H.  Q.  New  Orleans,  September  5th,  1814. 
MAJOR-GENERAL  JACKSON,  acting  under  the  authority  of  the 
president,  having  required  the  service  in  the  field  of  the  whole 
corps  of  Louisiana  militia,  holden  in  readiness  for  active  service 
under  the  orders  of  the  6th  ult.  the  governor  and  commander-in- 
chief  directs  that  the  detachment  drawn  from  the  second  division 
of  militia,  rendezvous  at  the  post  of  Baton  Rouge,  on  or  before 
the  1st  day  of  October  next,  where  after  being  organized  into 
companies,  under  the  order  of  major-general  Thomas,' in  manner 
as  heretofore  directed,  they  will  be  inspected  and  mustered  into 
the  service  of  the  United  States. 

The  commander-in-chief,  confiding  in  the  patriotism  of  the 
several  corps  attached  to  the  second  division,  assures  himself  that 
at  this  moment  of  peril,  they  will  deserve  well  of  their  country. 
Louisiana  is  openly  menaced,  and  it  is  believed  that  the  force 
destined  to  invade  her  is  at  this  time  assembled  at  Apalachicola 
and  Pensacola.  Major-general  Jackson,  commanding  the  seventh 
military  district,  who  has  often  led  the  western  warriors  to  victo 
ry,  invites  me  to  lose  no  time  in  preparing  for  the  defence  of  the 
state.  This  gallant  commander  is  now  at  or  near  Mobile  watch 
ing  the  movements  of  the  enemy,  and  making  the  necessary  pre 
parations  to  cover  and  defend  this  section  of  the  union.  He  will 
in  due  time  receive  re-enforcements  from  the  other  states  on  the 
Mississippi:  he  calculates  also,  on  the  zealous  support  of  the 
Louisianians,  and  must  not  be  disappointed.  The,  time  has  come 
when  every  man  must  do  his  duty,  when  no  faithful  American  will 
be  found  absent  from  his  post. 

By  order  of  his  excellency  W.  C.  C.  Claiborne. 
(Signed)  A.  LANEUVILLE, 

Adjutant-general.. 

By  another  general  order  the  detachment  drawn  from  the 
sixth,  seventh,  eighth,  and  ninth  regiments,  are  ordered  to  ren 
dezvous  at  the  Magasin  barracks  opposite  New  Orleans,  on  Sa 
turday  the  4th  instant. 


APPENDIX. 
NO.  XI. 

Militia  general  orders,  head-quarters, 

.Vew  Orleans,  September  8th,  1814, 

THE  governor  and  commander-in-chief  directs  that  the  several 
companies  of  militia,  within  the  city  and  suburbs  of  New  Orleans, 
muster  for  inspection  and  exercise  twice,  and  those  in  the  interior 
counties  of  the  state,  once  in  each  and  every  week,  at  such  times 
and  places  as  the  captains  or  officers  commanding  companies  shall 
designate.  He  recommends  also  to  all  fathers  of  families  and 
others  who,  by  their  stations  or  age,  are  exempted  from  militia  ser 
vice,  to  afford  at  this  eventful  crisis  a  laudable  example;  he  invites 
them  to  the  formation  of  military  associations;  to  choose  their  offi 
cers;  to  procure  arms,  and  to  assemble  occasionally  for  military 
exercise. 

The  commander-in-chicf  would  be  sorry  unnecessarily  to 
draw  his  fellow  citizens  from  their  private  pursuits  and  subject 
them  to  useless  fatigues,  but  in  his  judgment  their  safety  demands 
that  they  be  trained  to  the  use  of  arms,  and  holden  in  readiness  to 
turn  out  at  a  moment's  warnirlg  in  defence  of  their  families  and 
homes;  he  does  not  wish  to  excite  alarm,  and  trusts  none  will  ex 
ist;  but  it  is  his  duty  to  declare  that  the  state  is  menaced  with  dan 
gers  which  require  all  our  union,  zeal,  and  activity  to  avert,  A  hope 
is  still  cherished  that  the  pending  negociation  between  the  United 
States  and  Great  Britain  may  eventuate  in  a  peace  honourable  to 
both  parties;  but  there  is  too  much  reason  to  apprehend  that  the 
enemy  feeling  power  may  forget  right.  Indeed  from  the  informa 
tion  before  us,  we  shall  act  wisely  in  preparing  for  the  worst.  At 
this  moment  a  fleet  of  the  enemy  is  hovering  on  our  coast,  and  he  is 
assembling  a  force  at  Apalachicola,  Pensacola,  and  elsewhere, 
avowedly  for  the  invasion  of  Louisiana.  We  must  be  prepared  to 
meet  him;  to  dispute  every  inch  of  ground;  harass  him  on  his 
march;  make  a.  stand  at  every  favourable  position,  and  finally  to  tri 
umph  or  lose  with  our  country,  our  lives.  Every  individual,  there 
fore,  attached  to  the  militia  will  be  in  constant  readiness  for  active 
service — officers  of  every  grade  at  all  times  be  prepared  to  repair 
to  their  posts,  and  assume  the  command  which  may  be  assigned 
them — non-commissioned  officers  and  privates  will  put  their  arms, 
whether  muskets,  rifles,  or  shot-guns  in  the  best  possible  condition^ 


APPENDIX.  xxiii 

furnish  themselves  with  six  flints  each,  as  much  powder  and  ball  as 
can  conveniently  be  carried,  and  pack  in  their  knapsacks  one  blan 
ket,  one  shirt,  and  one  pair  of  shoes,  being  the  necessary  clothing 
on  a  march.  The  greatest  vigilance  will  be  observed,  and  every 
precaution  taken  to  guard  against  surprise.  Captains  and  subal 
terns  will  keep  their  field  officers  advised  of  every  occurrence 
which  interests  the  public  safety,  and  colonels  or  officers  com 
manding  regiments  will  communicate  the  same  to  the  generals  of 
their  respective  brigades  and  division,  and  the  general  officers  to 
the  coinmander-in-chief.  Strong  patroles  will  be  ordered  on  every 
night,  particularly  within  the  city  and  suburbs  of  New  Orleans 
and  the  adjacent  counties,  The  strictest  discipline  will  be  main 
tained  among  the  slaves,  and  every  person  of  suspicious  conduct 
or  character,  will  be  arrested  and  carried  before  a  judge,  or  jus 
tice  of  the  peace,  for  examination.  If  the  enemy  should  enter  the 
state,  the  several  colonels  of  militia  nearest  the  point  of  attack,  will 
immediately  order  into  the  field  their  respective  regiments,  <fod 
(after  detailing  a  suitable  guard  for  the  protection  of  the  women 
and  children,  and  the  maintenance  of  a  proper  police  on  the  plan 
tations)  will  advance  without  waiting  for  further  orders  to  the 
scene  of  danger.  Of  the  skUl  and  courage  of  the  regular  troops 
of  the  United  States  in  our  yicinity,  we  are  fully  assured;  we  will 
unite  our  efforts  with  theirs  against  the  common  enemy,  and  if 
called  to  act  with  our  gallant  countrymen  of  the  western  states, 
vie  with  them  also  in  deeds  of  valour. 

The  commander-in-chief  persuades  himself  that  no  efforts 
which  have  or  may  be  made  to  divide  us,  will  prove  successful. 
The  intrigues,  the  means  of  corruption  by  which  in  other  coun 
tries  our  enemy  has  so  much  profited,  will  doubtless  be  attempt 
ed  here.  But  his  character  is  well  understood,  and  it  is  hoped, 
that  his  arts  will  not  avail  him.  In  defence  of  our  homes  and  fa 
milies  there  surely  will  be  but  one  opinion — one  sentiment.  The 
American  citizen,  on  contrasting  his  situation  with  that  of  the  citi 
zen  or  subject  of  any  other  country  on  earth,  will  see  abundant 
cause  to  be  content  with  his  destiny.  He  must  be  aware  how  lit 
tle  he  can  gain,  and  how  much  he  must  lose  by  a  revolution,  or 
change  of  government. 


APPENDIX. 

If  there  be  a  citizen  who  believes  that  his  rights  and  proper 
ty  would  be  respected  by  an  invading  foe,  the  weakness  of  his  head 
should  excite  pity.  If  there  be  an  individual  who  supposes  the 
kind  offeree  with  which  we  are  menaced  could  be  restrained  from 
acts  of  violence,  he  knows  little  of  the  character  of  those  allies  of 
Great  Britain,  who  committed  the  massacre  at  fort  Minis. 

In  these  evil  days,  small  indeed  is  the  portion  of  affliction 
which  has  hitherto  befallen  Louisiana:  when  a  hostile  army  breaks 
into  the  territory  of  a  nation,  its  course  is  marked  with  scenes  of 
desolation,  which  centuries  of  industry  cannot  repair.  With  what 
union,  with  what  zeal,  should  all  our  energies  be  exerted  to  de 
fend  our  country  against  like  misfortunes! 

(Signed)  WM.  C.  C.  CLAIBORNE. 


NO.  XII. 

Head-quarters,  Pensacola,  August  26,  1814. 
Order  of  the  day  for  the  first  colonial  battalion  of  the  royal  corps  of  marines. 

You  are  called  upon  to  discharge  a  duty  of  the  utmost  danger,  of 
the  utmost  peril.  You  will  have  to  perform  long  and  tedious  marches 
through  wildernesses,  swamps  and  water-courses;  your  enemy  from 
long  habitinured  to  the  climate,  will  have  great  ad  vantages  over  you. 
But  remember  the  twenty-one  years  of  toil  and  glory  of  your  coun 
try,  and  resolve  to  follow  the  example  of  your  glorious  companions, 
who  have  fought  and  spilt  their  blood  in  her  service.  Be  equally 
faithful  and  strict  in  your  moral  discipline,  and  this,  the  last  and 
most  perfidious  of  your  enemies,  will  not  long  maintain  himself 
before  you.  A  cause  so  sacred  as  that  which  has  led  you  to  draw 
your  swords  in  Europe,  will  make  you  unsheath  them  in  America, 
and  I  trust  you  will  use  them  with  equal  credit  and  advantage.  In 
Europe,  your  arms  were  not  employed  in  defence  of  your  country 
only,  but  of  all  those  who  groaned  in  the  chains  of  oppression,  and 
in  America  they  are  to  have  the  same  direction.  The  people 
whom  you  are  now  to  aid  and  assist  have  suffered  robberies  and 
murders  committed  on  them  by  the  Americans. 

The  noble  Spanish  nation  has  grieved  to  see  her  territories 
insulted;  having  been  robbed  and  despoiled  of  a  portion  of  them 
while  she  was  overwhelmed  with  distress  and  held  down  by  the 


APPENDIX.  xxv 

chains  which  a  tyrant  had  imposed  on  her  gloriously  struggling  for 
the  greatest  of  all  possible  blessings  (true  liberty.)  The  treache 
rous  Americans,  who  call  themselves  free,  have  attacked  her,  like 
assassins,  while  she  was  fallen.  But  the  day  of  retribution  is  fast 
approaching.  These  atrocities  will  excite  horror  in  the  heart  of 
a  British  soldier,  they  will  stimulate  you  to  avenge  them,  and  you 
will  avenge  them  like  British  soldiers.  Valour,  then,  and  hu 
manity! 

As  to  the  Indians,  you  are  to  exhibit  to  them  the  most  exact 
discipline,  being  a  pattern  to  those  children  of  nature.  You  will  have 
to  teach  and  instruct  them;  in  doing  which  you  will  manifest  the  ut 
most  patience,  and  you  will  correct  them  when  they  deserve  it. 
But  you  will  regard  their  affections  and  antifiathies,  and  never  gi-ue 
them  just  cause  of  offence.  Sobriety,  above  all  things,  should  be 
your  greatest  care — a  single  instance  of  drunkenness  may  be  our 
ruin;  and  I  declare  to  you,  in  the  most  solemn  manner,  that  no  con 
sideration  whatsoever  shall  induce  me  to  forgive  a  drunkard.  Ap 
prised  of  this  declaration,  if  any  of  you  break  my  orders  in  this 
respect,  he  will  consider  himself  as  the  just  cause  of  his  own  chas 
tisement.  Sobriety  is  your  first  duty;  I  ask  of  you  the  observance 
of  it  among  your  brethren.-  Vigilance  is  our  next  duty.  Nothing 
is  so  disgraceful  to  our  army  as  surprise. — Nothing  so  destructive 

to  our  cause. 

EDWARD  NICHOLLS, 


NO.  XIIL 

At  a  very  numerous  and  respectable  meeting  of  the  citizens  of 
New  Orleans  and  its  vicinity,  assembled  pursuant  to  public 
notice  at  Tremoulet's  coffee-house,  on  the  15th  day  of  Sep- 
tember,  1814,  to  consider  of  the  propriety  of  naming  a  com 
mittee  to  co-operate  with  the  constituted  authorities  ot  the  state 
and  general  government,  in  suggesting  measures  of  defence, 
and  calling  out  the  force  of  the  country  in  the  present  emer 
gency, 

Edward  Livingston,  Esq.  was  called  to  the  chair,  and  Rich 
ard  Relf,  Esq.  appointed  secretary  of  the  meeting. 

The  chairman  opened  the  meeting  by  a  speech  analogous  to 
the  occasion,  in  which  he  showed  the  propriety  and  necessity  of  the 


xxvi  APPENDIX. 

meeting,  and  the  good  effects  that  would  probably  result  from  an 
expression  of  public  opinion  in  th«  present  posture  of  our  affairs, 
and  took  occasion,  from  the  English  assertion  of  disaffection  in 
this  state,  to  show,  that  we  owed  it  to  ourselves  to  disavow  such 
unfounded  and  calumnious  insinuations,  and  by  a  prompt  and 
cheerful  offer  of  support,  to  show  to  the  rest  of  the  United  States 
that  we  are  not  unworthy  of  a  place  among  them.  After  a  strong 
and  eloquent  invitation  to  union,  he  proposed  the  following  resolu 
tions,  which  were  unanimously  adopted: 

Resolved)  That  on  all  important  national  questions,  it  is  pro 
per,  and  in  urgent  emergencies  it  is  necessary,  for  the  citizens  of 
a  free  government  to  aid  their  magistrates  and  officers  by  a  proffer 
•of  their  support  in  the  performance  of  their  functions. 

Resolved,  That  in  this  state  such  an  expression  of  public 
opinion  is  peculiarly  proper,  because  the  enemy  has  dared  to  al 
lege  that  we  are  disaffected  to  our  government,  and  ready  to  assist 
him  in  his  attempts  on  our  independence,  an  allegation  which  we 
declare  to  be  false  and  insidious,  tending  to  create  doubts  of  our 
fidelity  to  the  union  of  which  we  are  a  member,  and  which  we  re 
pel  with  the  indignation  they  are  calculated  to  inspire. 

Resolved^  That  an  union  with  the  other  states  is  necessary  to 
the  prosperity  of  this,  and  that  while  we  rely  upon  them  for  as 
sistance  and  protection,  we  will  not  be  wanting  in  every  exertion 
proportionate  to  our  strength,  in  order  to  maintain  internal  tran 
quillity,  repxil  invasion,  and  preserve  to  the  United  States  this  im 
portant  accession  to  its  commerce  and  security. 

Resolved)  As  the  sense  of  this  assembly,  that  the  good  peo 
ple  of  this  state  are  attached  to  the  government  of  the  United 
States,  and  that  they  will  repel  with  indignation  every  attempt  to 
create  disaffection  and  weaken  the  force  of  the  country,  by  excit 
ing  dissentions  and  jealousies  at  a  moment  when  union  is  most 
necessary. 

Resolved,  That  we  consider  the  present  as  a  crisis  serious  but 
not  alarming — that  our  country  is  capable  of  defence — that  we  do 
not  despair  of  the  republic,  and  that  we  will  at  the  risk  of  our 
lives  and  fortunes  defend  it. 

Resolved^  That  a  committee  of  nine  members  be  appointed 
to  co-operate  with  the  constituted  civil  and  military  authorities,  in 


APPENDIX.  xxvii 

suggesting  means  of  defence,  and  calling  forth  the  energies  of  the 
countiy  to  repel  invasion  and  preserve  domestic  tranquillity,  and 
that  the  said  committee  consist  of  the  following  persons:  Edward 
Livingston,  Pierre  Foucher,  Dussuau  de  la  Croix,  Benjamin  Mor 
gan,  George  M.  Ogden,  Dominique  Bouligny,  J.  Noel  Destre- 
han,  John  Blanque,  Augustin  Macarty. 

(Signed)  EDWARD  LIVINGSTON,  chairman. 

'Signed)  RICHARD  RELF,  secretary. 


NO.  XIV. 

Address  from  the  committee  of  public  defence,   to  their  fellow 

citizens. 
FELLOW  CITIZENS, 

NAMED  by  a  numerous  assembly  of  the  citizens  of  New  Or 
leans,  to  aid  the  constituted  authorities  in  devising  the  most  certain 
means  of  guarding  against  the  dangers  which  threatened  you,  our 
first  duty  is  to  apprize  you  of  the  extent  of  those  dangers — your 
open  enemy  is  preparing  to  attack  you  from  without,  and  by  means 
of  his  vile  agents  dispersed  through  the  country,  endeavours  to 
excite  to  insurrection  a  more  cruel  and  dangerous  one  in  the  midst 
of  you. 

Fellow  citizens!  the  most  perfect  union  is  necessary  among 
all  the  individuals  which  compose  our  community;  all  have  an 
equal  interest  in  yielding  a  free  and  full  obedience  to  their  magis 
trates  and  officers,  and  in  forwarding  their  views  for  the  public 
good— all  have  not  only  their  property,  but  their  very  existence 
at  stake;  you  have,  through  your  representatives  in  the  convention, 
contracted  the  solemn  obligation  of  becoming  an  integral  part  of 
the  United  States  of  America;  by  this  measure  you  secured  your 
own  sovereignty  and  acquired  the  invaluable  blessing  of  indepen 
dence.  God  forbid  that  we  should  believe  there  are  any  among 
us  disposed  to  fail  in  the  sacred  duties  required  by  fidelity  and 
honour.  A  just  idea  of  the  geographical  situation  of  your  coun 
try  will  convince  you  that  your  safety,  and  in  a  greater  degree  your 
prosperity,  depends  on  your  being  irrevocably  and  faithfully  at 
tached  to  an  union  with  the  other  states;  but  if  there  exist  among 
you  men  base  or  mad  enough  to  undervalue  their  duties  and  their 


xxviii  APPENDIX. 

true  interest — let  them  tremble  on  considering  the  dreadful  evils 
they  will  bring  down  upon  themselves  and  upon  us,  if  by  their 
criminal  indifference  they  favour  the  enterprises  of  the  enemy 
against  our  beloved  country. 

Fellow  citizens!  the  navigation  of  the  Mississippi  is  as  ne 
cessary  to  two  millions  of  our  western  brethren,  as  the  blood  is  to 
the  pulsation  of  the  heart — those  brave  men,  closely  attached  to 
the  union, will  never  suffer,  whatever  seducing  offers  maybe  made 
to  them — they  will  never  suffer  the  state  of  Louisiana  to  be  sub 
ject  to  a  foreign  power,  and  should  the  events  of  war  enable  the 
enemy  to  occupy  it,  they  will  make  every  sacrifice  to  recover  a 
country  so  necessary  to  their  existence.  A  war  ruinous  to  you  would 
be  the  consequence,  the  enemy,  to  whom  you  would  have  had  the 
weakness  to  yield,  would  subject  you  to  a  military  despotism,  of 
all  others  the  most  dreadful;  your  estates,  your  slaves,  your  per 
sons  would  be  put  in  requisition,  and  you  would  be  forced  at  the 
point  of  the  bayonet  to  fight  against  those  very  men  whom  you 
have  voluntarily  chosen  for  fellow  citizens  and  brethren.  Beloved 
countrymen,  listen  to  the  men  honoured  by  your  confidence,  and 
who  will  endeavour  to  merit  it;  listen  to  the  voice  of  honour,  of 
duty,  and  of  nature!  unite!  form  but  one  body,  one  soul,  and  de 
fend  to  the  last  extremity  your  sovereignty,  your  property — de 
fend  your  own  lives,  and  the  dearer  existence  of  your  wives  and 

children. 

"PIERRE  FOUCHER, 


(Signed) 


DESTREHAN, 
BENJAMIN  MORGAN, 
EDWARD  LIVINGSTON, 
DUSUAU  DE  LA  CRO1X, 
AUGUSTUS  MACARTY, 
GEORGE  M.  OGDEN. 
D=  BOULIGNY, 


NO.  XV. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  committee  of  public  defence  on  the  21*£  Xcji 
tember,  1814, 

On  motion,  resolved,  that  a  sabre,  with  a  suitable  inscription 
and  proper  emblems,  be  presented  to  major  W.  Lawrence,  as  a 


APPENDIX.  xxix 

testimonial  of  the  sense  which  is  entertained  of  his  skill  and  gal-^ 
lantry  in  the  defence  of  fort  Bowyer,  and  in  the  repulse  of  the 
enemy's  squadron  and  forces  before  that  place. 

Ordered,  that  the  chairman  communicate  a  copy  of  this  reso 
lution  to  major  Lawrence,  with  a  request  that  he  will  convey  to 
the  brave  officers  and  men  under  his  command,  the  expression  of 
gratitude  which  is  felt  for  the  important  service  they  have  render 
ed  to  this  state,  as  well  as  to  the  United  States. 

(Signed)  EDWARD  LIVINGSTON,  chairman, 


NO.  XVI. 

PROCLAMATION. 

Head-quarters^  seventh  military  district^ 

Mobile,  September  2 1st,  1814. 

LOUISIANIANS! 

THE  base,  the  perfidious  Britons  have  attempted  to  invade  your 
country — they  had  the  temerity  to  attack  fort  Bowyer  with  their  in 
congruous  horde  of  Indians  and  negro  assassins — they  seemed  to 
have  forgotten  that  this  fort  was  defended  by  freemen — they  were 
not  long  indulged  in  their  error — the  gallant  Lawrence,  with  his 
little  spartan  band,  has  given  them  a  lecture  that  will  last  for  ages; 
he  has  taught  them  what  men  can  do  when  fighting  for  their  liber 
ty,  when  contending  against  slaves.  He  has  convinced  sir  W.  H. 
Percy  that  his  companions  in  arms  are  not  to  be  conquered  by 
proclamations;  that  the  strongest  British  bark  is  not  invulnerable 
to^the  force  of  American  artillery,  directed  by  the  steady  nervous 
arm  of  a  freeman. 

Louisianians! — The  proud  Briton,  the  natural  and  sworn  ene 
mies  of  all  Frenchmen,  has  called  upon  you,  by  proclamation,  to 
aid  him  in  his  tyranny,  and  to  prostrate  the  holy  temple  of  our  li- 
berty.  Can  Louisianians,  can  Frenchmen,  can  Americans,  ever 
Stoop  to  be  the  slaves  or  allies  of  Britain. 

The  proud,  vain-glorious  boaster  colonel  Nicholls,  when  he 
addressed  you,  Louisianians  and  Kentuckians,  had  forgotten  that 
you  were  the  votaries  of  freedom,  or  he  would  never  have  pledg 
ed  the  honour  of  a  British  officer  for  the  faithful  performance  of 
his  promise,  to  lure  you  from  your  fidelity  to  the  government  of 


xxx  APPENDIX. 

your  choice.  I  ask  you,  Louisianians,  can  we  place  any  confidence 
in  he  honour  of  men  who  have  courted  an  alliance  with  pirates 
and  robbers?  Have  not  these  noble  Britons,  these  honourable  men, 
colonel  Nicholls  and  the  honourable  captain  W.  H.  Percy,  the 
true  representatives  of  their  royal  master,  done  this?  Have  they 
not  made  offers  to  the  pirates  of  Barataria  to  join  them,  and  theiu 
holy  cause?  And  have  they  not  dared  to  insult  you  by  calling  on 
you  to  associate,  as  brethren  with  them,  and  this  hellish  banditti. 

Louisianians! — The  government  of  your  choice  are  engaged 
in  a  just  and  honourable  contest  for  the  security  of  your  individu 
al  and  her  national  rights — on  you,  a  part  of  America,  the  only 
country  on  earth  where  every  man  enjoys  freedom,  where  its 
blessings  are  alike  extended  to  the  poor  and  the  rich,  calls  to  pro 
tect  these  rights  from  the  invading  usurpation  of  Britain;  and  she 
calls  not  in  vain.  I  well  know  that  every  man  whose  soul  beats 
high  at  the  proud  title  of  freeman;  that  every  Louisianian,  either 
by  birth  or  adoption,  will  promptly  obey  the  voice  of  his  country; 
will  rally  round  the  eagle  of  Columbia,  secure  it  from  the  pend 
ing  danger,  or  nobly  die  in  the  last  ditch  in  its  defence. 

The  individual  who  refuses  to  defend  his  rights,  when  called 
upon  by  his  government,  deserves  to  be  a  slave,  and  must  be 
punished  as  an  enemy  to  his  country,  and  a  friend  to  her  foe. 

The  undersigned  has  been  intrusted  with  the  defence  of  your 
country — on  you  he  relies  to  aid  him  in  this  important  duty;  in 
this  reliance  he  hopes  not  to  be  mistaken.  He  trusts  in  the  jus 
tice  of  his  cause  and  the  patriotism  of  his  countrymen — confident 
that  any  future  attempt  to  invade  our  soil  will  be  repelled  as  the 
last,  he  calls  not  upon  either  pirates  or  robbers  to  join  him  in  the 
glorious  cause. 

Your  governor  has  been  fully  authorized  by  me  to  organize 
any  volunteer  company,  battalion,  or  regiment  which  may  proffer 
its  services  under  this  call,  and  is  informed  of  their  probable  des 
tination. 

(Signed)  ANDREW  JACKSOIC. 


APPENDIX.  xxxi 

NO.  XVII. 

PROCLAMATION. 

Head-quarters,  7th  military  district,  Mobile,  September  21,  1814. 

To  the  free  coloured  inhabitants  of  Louisiana. 

THROUGH  a  mistaken  policy  you  have  heretofore  been  de 
prived  of  a  participation  in  the  glorious  struggle  for  national  rights 
in  which  our  country  is  engaged.  This  no  longer  shall  exist. 

As  sons  of  freedom,  you  are  now  called  upon  to  defend  our 
most  inestimable  blessing.  As  Americans,  your  country  looks 
with  confidence  to  her  adopted  children,  for  a  valorous  support, 
as  a  faithful  return  for  the  advantages  enjoyed  under  her  mild  and 
equitable  government.  As  fathers,  husbands,  and  brothers,  you 
are  summoned  to  rally  round  the  standard  of  the  eagle,  to  defend 
all  which  is  dear  in  existence. 

Your  country,  although  calling  for  your  exertions,  does  not 
wish  you  to  engage  in  her  cause,  without  amply  remunerating  you 
for  the  services  rendered.  Your  intelligent  minds  are  not  to  be 
led  away  by  false  representations. — Your  love  of  honour  would 
cause  you  to  despise  the  man  who  should  attempt  to  deceive  you. 
In  the  sincerity  of  a  soldier,  and  the  language  of  truth  I  address 
you. 

To  every  noble-hearted,  generous  freeman  of  colour,  volun 
teering  to  serve  during  the  present  contest  with  Great  Britain, 
and  no  longer,  there  will  be  paid  the  same  bounty  in  money  and 
lands,  now  received  by  the  white  soldiers  of  the  United  States,  viz. 
one  hundred  and  twenty-four  dollars  in  money,  and  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  of  land.  The  non-commissioned  officers  and  pri 
vates  will  also  be  entitled  to  the  same  monthly  pay  and  daily  ra 
tions,  and  clothes  furnished  to  any  American  soldier. 

On  enrolling  yourselves  in  companies,  the  major-general 
commanding  will  select  officers  for  your  government,  from  your 
white  fellow  citizens.  Your  non-commissioned  officers  will  be 
appointed  from  among  yourselves. 

Due  regard  will  be  paid  to  the  feelings  of  freemen  and  sol 
diers.  You  will  not,  by  being  associated  with  white  men  in  the 
same  corps,  be  exposed  to  improper  comparisons  or  unjust  sar 
casm.  As  a  distinct,  independent  battalion  or  regiment,  pursuing 
the  path  of  glory,  you  will,  undivided,  receive  the  applause  ar\d 
gratitude  of  your  countrymen. 


APPENDIX. 

To  assure  you  of  the  sincerity  of  my  intentions  and  my  anxiety 
to  engage  your  invaluable  services  to  our  country,  I  have  commu 
nicated  iny  wishes  to  the  governor  of  Louisiana,  who  is  fully  in 
formed  as  to  the  manner  of  enrolment,  and  will  give  you  every  ne 
cessary  information  on  the  subject  of  this  address. 

ANDREW  JACKSON, 
Major-general  commanding. 


NO.  XVIII. 

ANONYMOUS. 

To  commodore  Daniel  T.  Patterson^  New  Orleans. 

Pensacola,  5th  December,  1814. 
Sin, 

I  FEEL  it  a  duty  to  apprize  you'of  a  very  large  force  of  the 
enemy  off  this  port,  and  it  is'gener'ally  understood  New  Orleans 
is  the  object  of  attack.  It  amounts  at  present  to  aboyt  eighty  vessels, 
and  more  than  double  that  number  are  momentarily  looked  for,  to 
form  a  junction,  when  an  immediate  commencement  of  their  ope 
rations  will  take  place.  I  am  not  able  to  learn,  how,  when,  or 
where  the  attack  will  be  made;  but  I  heard  that  they  have  vessels 
of  all  descriptions,  and  a  large  body  of  troops.  Admiral  Cochrane 
commands,  and  his  ship,  the  Tonnant,  lies  at  this  moment  just  out 
side  the  bar;  they  certainly  appear  to  have  swept  the  West  Indies 
of  troops,  and  probably  no  means  will  be  left  untried  to  obtain  their 
object. — The  admiral  arrived  only  yesterday  noon. 

I  am  yours,  Sec. 


NO.  XIX. 

Cofiy  of  a  letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to  the  secretary  of  the 

na-vy^  dated  New  Orlean^  17th  March^  1815. 
SIR, 

INCLOSED  I  have  the  honour  to  transmit  for  your  information 
a  copy  of  a  letter  from  lieutenant  Thomas  Ap  Catesby  Jones,  giv 
ing  a  detailed  account  of  the  action  between  the  gun- vessels  under 
his  command,  and  a  flotilla  of  the  enemy's  lanches  and  barges,  ori 


r > 

I   UNIVERSIT^ 
\ 

APPENDIX.  xxxiii 

the  1 4th  December,  1814,  which,  after  a  most  gallant  resistance, 
terminated,  as  stated  in  my  letter  of  the  17th  December,  in  the 
capture  of  our  squadron. 

The  courage  and  skill  which  was  displayed  in  the  defence  of 
the  gun-vessels  and  tender,  for  such  a  length  of  time,  against  such 
an  overwhelming  force  as  they  had  to  contend  with,  reflects  ad 
ditional  splendour  on  our  naval  glory,  and  will,  I  trust,  diminish 
the  regret  occasioned  by  their  loss. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 

DANIEL  T.  PATTERSON. 

JVew  Orleans,  12th  March,  1815. 
SIR, 

HAVING  sufficiently  recovered  my  strength,  I  do  myself  the 
honour  of  reporting  to  you  the  particulars  of  the  capture  of  the  di 
vision  of  United  States'  gun-boats  late  under  my  command. 

On  the  12th -December,  1814,  the  enemy's  fleet  off  Ship 
island  increased  to  such  a  force  as  to  render  it  no  longer  safe  or 
prudent  for  me  to  continue  on  that  part  of  the  lakes  with  the  small 
force  which  I  commanded.  I  therefore  determined  to  gain  a  sta 
tion  near  the  Malhereux  islands  as  soon  as  possible,  which  situa 
tion  would  better  enable  me  to  oppose  a  further  penetration  of  the 
enemy  up  the  lakes,  and  at  the  same  time  afford  me  an  opportuni 
ty  of  retreating  to  the  Petite  Coquilles  if  necessary. 

At  10,  A.  M.  on  the  13th  I  discovered  a  large  flotilla  of  bar 
ges  had  left  the  fleet,  (shaping  their  course  towards  the  Pass 
Christian)  which  I  supposed  to  be  a  disembarkation  of  troops  in 
tended  to  land  at  that  place.  About  2,  P.  M.  the  enemy's  flotilla 
having  gained  the  Pass  Christian,  and  continuing  their  course  to 
the  westward,  convinced  me  that  an  attack  on  the  gun-boats  was 
designed.  At  this  time  the  water  in  the  lakes  was  uncommonly 
low,  owing  to  the  westerly  wind  which  had  prevailed  for  a  number 
of  days  previous,  and  which  still  continued  from  the  same  quar 
ter.  Nos.  156,  162  and  163,  although  in  the  best  channel,  were 
in  12  or  18  inches  less  water  than  their  draught.  Every  effort; 
was  made  to  get  them  afloat  by  throwing  overboard  all  articles  of 
weight  that  could  be  dispensed  with.  At  3  30,  the  flood-tide  had 
commenced;  got  under  weigh,  making  the  best  of  my  way  to 
wards  the  Petite  Coquilles,  At  3  45,  the  enemy  despatched  three 


xxxiv  APPENDIX. 

boats  to  cut  out  the  schooner  Seahorse,  which  had  been  sent  into 
the  bay  St.  Louis  that  morning  to  assist  in  the  removal  of  the  public 
stores,  which  I  had  previously  ordered.  There  finding  a  removal 
impracticable,  I  ordered  preparations  to  be  made  for  their  destruc 
tion,  least  they  should  fall  into  the  enemy's  hands.  A  few  dis 
charges  of  grape-shot  from  the  Seahorse  compelled  the  three- 
boats,  which  had  attacked  her,  to  retire  out  of  reach  of  her  gun, 
until  they  were  joined  by  four  others,  when  the  attack  was  re 
commenced  by  the  seven  boats.  Mr.  Johnson  having  chosen  an 
advantageous  position  near  the  two  six-pounders  mounted  on  the 
bank,  maintained  a  sharp  action  for  near  30  minutes,  when  the  ene 
my  hauled  off,  having  one  boat  apparently  much  injured,  and  with 
the  loss  of  several  men  killed  and  wounded.  ~At  7  30,  an  explo 
sion  at  the  bay,  and  soon  after  a  large  fire,  induced  me  to  believe 
the  Seahorse  was  blown  up  and  the  public  storehouse  set  on  fire, 
which  has  proved  to  be  the  fact. 

About  I  A.  M.  on  the  14th,  the  wind  having  entirely  died  away, 
and  our  vessels  become  unmanageable,  came  to  anchor  in  the 
west  end  of  Malheureux  island's  passage.  At  daylight  next 
morning,  still  a  perfect  calm,  the  enemy's  flotilla  was  about  nine 
miles  from  us  at  anchor,  but  soon  got  in  motion  and  rapidly  ad 
vanced  on  us.  The  want  of  wind,  and  the  strong  ebb-tide  which 
was  setting  through  the  pass,  left  me  but  one  alternative;  which 
was,  to  put  myself  in  the  most  advantageous  position,  to  give  the 
enemy  as  warm  a  reception  as  possible.  The  commanders  were  all 
called  on  board  and  made  acquainted  with  my  intentions,  and  the 
position  which  each  vessel  was  to  take,  the  whole  to  form  a  close 
line  abreast  across  the  channel,  anchored  by  the  stern  with  springs 
on  the  cable,  &c.  &c.  Thus  we  remained  anxiously  awaiting  an 
attack  from  the  advancing  foe,  whose  force  I  now  clearly  distin 
guished  to  be  composed  of  forty-two  heavy  lanches  and  gun-bar 
ges,  with  three  light  gigs,  manned  with  upwards  of  one  thousand 
men  and  officers.  About  9  30,  the  Alligator  (tender)  which  was 
to  the  southward  and  eastward,  arid  endeavouring  to  join  the  di 
vision,  was  captured  by  several  of  the  enemy's  barges,  when  the 
whole  flotilla  came  to,  with  their  grampnels  a  little  out  of  reach 
of  our  shot,  apparently  making  arrangements  for  the  attack — At 
10  30,  the  enemy  weighed,  forming  a  line  abreast  in  open  order,  - 
and  steering  direct  for  our  line,  which  was  unfortunately  in  some 


APPENDIX.  xxxv 

degree  broken  by  the  force  of  the  current,  driving  Nos.  1 56  and  1 63 
about  one  hundred  yards  in  advance.  As  soon  as  the  enemy  came 
within  reach  of  our  shot,  a  deliberate  fire  from  our  long  guns  was 
opened  upon  him,  but  without  much  effect,  the  objects  being  of 
so  small  a  size.  At  10  minutes  before  11,  the  enemy  opened  a 
fire  from  the  whole  of  his  line,  when  the  action  became  general 
and  destructive  on  both  sides.  About  1 1  49,  the  advance  boats  of 
the  enemy,  three  in  number,  attempted  to  board  No.  156,  but  were 
repulsed  with  the  loss  of  nearly  every  officer  killed  or  wounded, 
and  two  boats  sunk. — A  second  attempt  to  board  was  then  made 
by  four  other  boats,  which  shared  almost  a  similar  fate.  At  this 
moment  I  received  a  severe  wound  in  my  left  shoulder,  which 
compelled  me  to  quit  the  deck,  leaving  it  in  charge  of  Mr. 
George  Parker,  master's-mate,  who  gallantly  defended  the  vessel 
until  he  was  severely  wounded,  when  the  enemy,  by  his  superior 
number,  succeeded  in  gaining  possession  of  the  deck  about  10 
minutes  past  12  o'clock.  The  enemy  immediately  turned  the 
guns  of  his  prize  on  the  other  gun-boats,  and  fired  several  shot 
previous  to  striking  the  American  colours.  The  action  continued 
with  unabating  severity  until  40  minutes  past  12  o'clock,  when  it 
terminated  with  the  surrender  of  No.  23,  all  the  other  vessels  hav 
ing  previously  fallen  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy. 

In  this  unequal  contest  our  loss  in  killed  and  wounded  has  been 
trifling,  compared  to  that  of  the  enemy. 

Enclosed  you  will  receive  a  list  of  the  killed  and  wounded, 
and  a  correct  statement  of  the  force  which  I  had  the  honour  to 
command  at  the  commencement  of  the  action,  together  with  an 
estimate  of  the  force  I  had  to  contend  against,  as  acknowledged 
by  the  enemy,  which  will  enable  you  to  decide  how  far  the  honour 
of  our  country's  flag  has  been  supported  in  this  conflict. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 
(Signed)  THOMAS  AP  CATESBY  JONES. 

Statement  of  the  effective  forces  of  a  division  of  the  United  States' 
gun-boats  under  the  command  of  lieutenant-commanding  Tho 
mas  A]i  Catesby  Jones^  at  the  commencement  of  the  action^  with 
a  flotilla  of  English  boats^on  the  14th  December,  1814. 

Gun-boat  No.  5,  5  guns,  36  men,  sailing-master  John  D.  Fer 
ris;  gun-boat  23,  5  guns,  39  men,  lieutenant  Isaac  M'Keevc 


xxxvi  APPENDIX. 

gun-boat  No.  156,  5  guns,  41  men,  lieutenant-commandant 
mas  A.  C.Jones;  gun-boat  162,  5  guns,  35  men,  lieutenant  Ro 
bert  Spedden;  gun-boat  163,  3  guns,  31  men,  sailing-master 
George  Ulrick — Total,  23  guns,  182  men. 

N.  B.  The  schooner  Seahorse,  had  one  six-pounder,  and  14 
men,  sailing-master  William  Johnson,  commander;  none  killed  or 
wounded. 

The  sloop  Alligator  (tender)  had  one  four-pounder  and  8 
men,  sailing-master  Richard  S.  Shepperd,  commander. 

(Signed)  THOMAS  AP  CATESBY  JONES. 

The  following  is  a  correct  statement  of  the  British  forces  which  were 
engaged  in  the  capture  of  the  late  United  States*  gun-boats, 
Nos.  23,  156,5,  162  and  163,  near  the  Malhereux  islands,  lake 
Borgne,  14th  December,  1814. 

Forty  lanches  and  barges,  mounting  one  carronade,  each  ot 
12,  18,  and  24  calibre. 

One  lanch  mounting  one  long  brass  twelve-pounder. 
One  lanch  mounting  one  long  brass  nine-pounder. 
Three  gigs,  with  small  arms  only. 

Total  number  of  boats  45 

Total  number  of  cannon  43 

The  above  flotilla  was  manned  with  one  thousand  two  hun 
dred  men  and  officers,  commanded  by  captain  Lockyer,  who  re 
ceived  three  severe  wounds  in  the  action.  The  enemy,  as  usual, 
will  not  acknowledge  his  loss  on  this  occasion  in  boats  or  men; 
but  from  the  nature  of  the  action,  and  the  observations  made  by 
our  officers,  while  prisoners  in  their  fleet,  his  loss  in  killed  and 
wounded  may  be  justly  estimated  to  exceed  three  hundred,  among- 
v;hora  are  an  unusual  proportion  of  officers. 


APPENDIX.  xxxvii 

NO.  XX. 

On  Sunday,  the  18th  December,  general  Jackson  reviewed  the 
militia  of  the  city,  the  battalion  commanded  by  major  Plauche, 
and  a  part  of  the  regiment  of  men  of  colour.  Being  drawn  up 
on  their  respective  parades,  the  following  addresses  were  read 
to  them  by  Mr.  Livingston,  one  of  his  aids: 

TO  THE  EMBODIED  MILITIA. 

JFello'w  citizens  and  soldiers! 

THE  general  commanding  in  chief  would  not  do  justice  to 
the  noble  ardour  that  has  animated  you  in  the  hour  of  danger,  he 
would  not  do  justice  to  his  own  feeling,  if  he  suffered  the  example 
you  have  shown  to  pass  without  public  notice.  Inhabitants  of  an 
opulent  and  commercial  town,  you  have,  by  a  spontaneous  effort, 
shaken  off  the  habits  which  are  created  by  wealth,  and  shown  that 
you  are  resolved  to  deserve  the  blessings  of  fortune  by  bravely  de 
fending  them.  Long  strangers  to  the  perils  of  war,  you  have  em 
bodied  yourselves  to  face  them  with  the  cool  countenance  of  vete 
rans — and  with  motives  of  disunion  that  might  operate  on  weak 
minds,  you  have  forgotten  the  difference  of  language  and  the  pre 
judices  of  national  pride,  and  united  with  a  cordiality  that  does 
honour  to  your  understandings  as  well  as  to  your  patriotism.  Na 
tives  of  the  United  States!  They  are  the  oppressors  of  your  infant 
political  existence,  with  whom  you  are  to  contend — they  are  the 
men  your  fathers  conquered  whom  you  are  to  oppose.  Descend 
ants  of  Frenchmen!  natives  of  France!  they  are  English,  the  he 
reditary,  the  eternal  enemies  of  your  ancient  country,  the  invaders 
of  that  you  have  adopted,  who  are  your  foes.  Spaniards!  remem 
ber  the  conduct  of  your  allies  at  St.  Sebastians,  and  recently  at 
Pensacola,  and  rejoice  that  you  have  an  opportunity  of  avenging 
the  brutal  injuries  inflicted  by  men  who  dishonour  the  human  race. 

Fellow  citizens,  of  every  description,  remember  for  what  and 
against  whom  you  contend.  For  all  that  can  render  life  desira 
ble — for  a  country  blessed  with  every  gift  of  nature — for  property, 
for  life — for  those  dearer  than  either,  your  wives  and  children— 
and  for  liberty,  without  which,  country,  life,  property,  are  no 
longer  worth  possessing;  as  even  the  embraces  of  wives  and  chil 
dren  become  a  reproach  to  the  wretch  who  would  deprive  them 


xxxviii  APPENDIX. 

by  his  cowardice  of  those  invaluable  blessings.  You  are  to  con 
tend  for  all  this  against  an  enemy  whose  continued  effort  is  to  de 
prive  you  of  the  least  of  these  blessings — who  avows  a  war  of  ven 
geance  and  desolation,  carried  on  and  marked  by  cruelty,  lust,  and 
horrors  unknown  to  civilized  nations. 

Citizens  of  Louisiana!  the  general  commanding  in  chief,  re 
joices  to  see  the  spirit  that  animates  you,  not  only  for  your  honour 
but  for  your  safety;  for  whatever  had  been  your  conduct  or  wishes, 
his  duty  would  have  led,  and  will  now  lead  him  to  confound  the 
citizen  unmindful  of  his  rights,  with  the  enemy  he  ceases  to  oppose. 
Now,  leading  men  who  know  their  rights,  who  are  determined  to 
defend  them,  he  salutes  you,  brave  Louisianians,  as  brethren  in 
arms,  and  has  now  a  new  motive  .to  exert  all  his  faculties  which 
shall  be  strained  to  the  utmost  in  your  defence.  Continue  with 
the  energy  you  have  begun,  and  he  promises  you  not  only  safety, 
but  victory  over  the  insolent  enemy  who  insulted  you  by  an  affect 
ed  doubt  of  your  attachment  to  the  constitution  of  your  country. 

TO   THE  BATTALION  OF   UNIFORM   COMPANIES. 

WHEN  I  first  looked  at  you  on  the  day  of  my  arrival,  I  was 
satisfied  with  your  appearance,  and  every  day's  inspection  since 
has  confirmed  the  opinion  I  then  formed.  Your  numbers  have 
increased  with  the  increase  of  danger,  and  your  ardour  has  aug 
mented  since  it  was  known  that  your  post  would  be  one  of  peril 
and  honour.  This  is  the  true  love  of  country!  You  have  added 
to  it  an  exact  discipline,  and  a  skill  in  evolutions  rarely  attained 
by  veterans;  the  state  of  your  corps  does  equal  honour  to  the  skill 
of  the  officers  and  the  attention  of  the  men.  With  such  defenders 
our  country  has  nothing  to  fear.  Every  thing  I  have  said  to  the 
body  of  militia,  applies  equally  to  you — you  have  made  the  same 
sacrifices — you  have  the  same  country  to  defend,  the  same  motive 
for  exertion— but  I  should  have  been  unjust  had  I  not  noticed,  as 
it  deserved,  the  excellence  of  your  discipline  and  the  martial  ap 
pearance  of  your  corps. 

TO   THE   MEN   OF   COLOUR. 

SOLDIERS — From  the  shores  of  Mobile  I  collected  you  to 
arms — I  invited  you  to  share  in  the  perils  and  to  divide  the  glory 
of  your  white  countrymen.  I  expected  much  from  you,  for  I  was 
not  uninformed  of  those  qualities  which  must  render  you  so  for- 


APPENDIX.  xxxix 

midable  to  an  invading  foe — I  knew  that  you  could  endure  hunger 
and  thirst  and  all  the  hardships  of  war — I  knew  that  you  loved  the 
land  of  your  nativity,  and  that,  like  ourselves,  you  had  to  defend  all 
that  is  most  dear  to  man — but  you  surpass  my  hopes.  I  have  found 
in  you,  united  to  those  qualities,  that  noble  enthusiasm  which  im 
pels  to  great  deeds. 

Soldiers — The  president  of  the  United  States  shall  be  in 
formed  of  your  conduct  on  the  present  occasion,  and  the  voice  of 
the  representatives  of  the  American  nation  shall  applaud  your  va 
lour,  as  your  general  now  praises  your  ardour.  The  enemy  is 
near;  his  "  sails  cover  the  lakes;"  but  the  brave  are  united;  and  if 
he  finds  us  contending  among  ourselves,  it  will  be  for  the  prize 
of  valour  and  fame,  its  noblest  reward. 

(By  command)  THOMAS  L.  BUTLER, 

Aid'de-camp. 


NO.  XXI. 

The  following  spirited  order  gives  a  sufficient  account  of  the 
motives  which  induced  general  Jackson  to  resort  to  the  measure 
of  proclaiming  martial  law.  At  the  same  time  that  it  served  to  con 
vince  the  emissaries,  whom  the  enemy  might  have  sent  among  us, 
of  the  inutility  of  their  mission,  it  convinced  also  the  people  of 
Louisiana,  that  the  man  who  had  come  to  take  command  of  the 
forces,  was  decidedly  determined  to  save  the  country,  and  to  make 
use  of  all  the  means  in  his  power  to  obtain  that  desirable  end. 

New  Orleans,  December  15,  1814. 

To  THE  CITIZENS  OF   NEW  ORLEANS, 

THE  major-general  commanding,  has,  with  astonishment  and 
regret,  learned  that  great  consternation  and  alarm  pervade  your 
city.  It  is  true  the  enemy  is  on  our  coast  and  threatens  an  inva 
sion  of  our  territory,  but  it  is  equally  true,  with  union,  energy,  and 
the  approbation  of  Heaven,  we  will  beat  him  at  every  point  his 
temerity  may  induce  him  to  set  foot  upon  our  soil.  The  general,  with 
still  greater  astonishment,  has  heard  that  British  emissaries  have 
been  permitted  to  propagate  seditious  reports  among  you,  that  the 
threatened  invasion  is  with  a  view  of  restoring  the  country  to 
Spain,  from  a  supposition  that  some  of  you  would  be  willing  to 


xl  APPENDIX. 

return  to  your  ancient  government.  Believe  not  such  incredible 
tales — your  government  is  at  peace  with  Spain — it  is  the  vital  ene 
my  of  your  country,  the  common  enemy  of  mankind,  the  highway 
robber  of  the  world  that  threatens  you,  and  has  sent  his  hirelings 
amongst  you  with  this  false  report,  to  put  you  off  your  guai  ci,  that 
you  may  fall  an  easy  prey  to  him;— then  look  to  your  liberties, 
your  property,  the  chastity  of  your  wives  and  daughters — take  a 
retrospect  of  the  conduct  of  the  British  army  at  Hampton  and 
other  places,  where  it  has  entered  our  country,  and  every  bosom 
which  glows  with  patriotism  and  virtue,  will  be  inspired  with  in 
dignation,  and  pant  for  the  arrival  of  the  hour  when  we  shall  meet 
and  revenge  those  outrages  against  the  laws  of  civilization  and  hu 
manity. 

The  general  calls  upon  the  inhabitants  of  the  city  to  trace 
this  unfounded  report  to  its  source,  and  bring  the  propagator  to 
condign  punishment.  The  rules  and  articles  of  war  annex  the 
punishment  of  death  to  any  person  holding  secret  correspondence 
with  the  enemy,  creating  false  alarm,  or  supplying  him  with  pro 
vision;  and  the  general  announces  his  unalterable  determination 
rigidly  to  execute  the  martial  law  in  all  cases  which  may  come 
within  his  province. 

The  safety  df  the  district  entrusted  to  the  protection  of  the 
general,  must  and  will  be  maintained  with  the  best  blood  of  the 
country;  and  he  is  confident  all  good  citizens  will  be  found  at  their 
posts,  with  their  arms  in  their  hands,  determined  to  dispute  every 
inch  of  ground  with  the  enemy:  that  unanimity  will  pervade  the 
country  generally:  but  should  the  general  be  disappointed  in  this 
expectation,  he  will  separate  our  enemies  from  our  friends — those 
who  are  not  for  us  are  against  us,  and  will  be  dealt  with  accordingly. 

(By  command)  THOMAS  L.  BUTLER,  aid-de-camfi. 


NO.  XXII. 

AN  ACT 
1o  grant  a  delay  in  the  cases  therein  mentioned, 

WHEREAS  the   present  crisis  will  oblige  a  great  number  of 
citizens  to  take  up  arms  in  defence  of  this  state,  and  compel  them 


APPENDIX.  xii 

to  quit  their  homes,  and  thus  leave  their  private  affairs  in  a  state 
of  abandonment,  which  may  expose  them  to  great  distress,  if  the 
legislature  should  not,  by  measures  adapted  to  the  circumstances, 
come  to  their  relief, 

SEC.  1.  Be  it  enacted  by  the  senate  and  house  of  representa 
tives  of  the  state  of  Louisiana  in  general  assembly  convened.  That 
no  protest  on  any  note  or  bill  of  exchange,  payable  to  order  or 
bearer,  or  on  any  note,  bill  of  exchange,  or  obligation  for  the  pay 
ment  of  money,  shall  or  can  be  legally  made,  until  one  hundred 
and  twenty  days  after  the  promulgation  of  the  present  act. 

SEC.  2.  And  be  it  further  enacted,  That  no  property,  either 
moveable  or  immoveable,  belonging  to  successions  or  bankrupts, 
or  any  property  seized  by  virtue  of  any  execution  issued  by  the 
courts  of  justice,  or  justices  of  the  peace  of  this  state,  shall  be 
sold  within  one  hundred  and  twenty  days  after  the  promulgation  of 
the  present  act;  Provided  however,  that  the  delay  aforesaid  shall 
not  prejudice  the  holders  or  proprietors  of  the  said  notes,  bills, 
obligations,  or  judgments,  from  demanding  the  interests  which 
they  would  or  might  have  legally  demanded,  if  the  said  delay  did 
not  exist. 

SEC.  3.  And  be  it  further  enacted,  That  from  and  after  the 
promulgation  of  this  act,  no  civil  suit  or  action  shall  be  commen 
ced  or  prosecuted  before  any  court  of  record  or  other  tribunal  of 
this  state,  nor  shall  any  execution  issue  or  be  proceeded  upon;  and 
all  proceedings  in  civil  suits  or  actions,  now  pending  before  any 
such  court  or  tribunal,  shall  henceforth  cease  and  be  suspended 
during  the  time  this  act  shall  remain  in  force. 

SEC.  4.  And  be  it  further  enacted,  That  no  sale  of  lands  or 
slaves  which  may  be  passed  during  the  time  this  act  remains  in 
force,  shall  have  any  effect  to  the  prejudice  of  the  rights  of  the 
creditor  or  creditors,  of  the  persons  making  such  sale.  Provided 
however,  that  such  creditor  or  creditors  who  may  have  no  existing 
lien  on  such  property,  shall,  before  the  first  day  of  June  next,  make 
known  to  the  person  possessing  the  same,  the  claim  or  demand  he 
or  they  may  have  against  the  person  who  shall  have  sold  the  same. 

SEC.  5.  And  be  it  further  enacted,  That  for  the  purpose  of 
preserving  the  securities  of  creditors  under  the  said  suspension 

f 


xlii  APPENDIX. 

of  judicial  proceedings,  the  several  judges  and  justices  of  the 
peace  of  this  state,  having  original  jurisdiction,  shall  have  the 
power  of  granting  writs  of  sequestration,  in  case  any  debtor  or 
debtors,  during  such  suspension,  shall  remove  or  attempt  to  re 
move  their  personal  estate  and  slaves,  or  either  of  them  without 
the  jurisdiction  of  the  courts;  which  may  be  detained  under  se 
questration  on  petition  filed  by  the  creditor,  the  allegations  con 
tained  in  which  petition  shall  be  supported  by  the  oath  of  the  pe 
titioner,  his  agent  or  attorney,  Provided  however,  that  the  debtor 
may  replevy  his  estate  so  sequestered,  on  giving  bond  and  securi 
ty  for  the  payment  of  any  judgment  against  him,  or  any  debt  to  be 
liquidated  by  judgment  or  otherwise  by  the  debtor  and  creditor. 

SEC.  6.  And  be  it  further  enacted,  That  this  act,  within  the 
parish  of  Orleans,  shall  be  considered  as  being  legally  promulga 
ted,  on  the  day  it  shall  have  been  approved  by  the  governor,  and 
within  the  other  parishes  of  this  state,  on  the  day  of  its  promulga 
tion,  agreeably  to  the  now  existing  laws.  This  act  shall  continue 
and  be  in  force  until  the  first  day  of  May  next  and  no  longer. 

MAGLOIRE  GUICHARD, 
Sfieaker  of  the  house  of  representatives. 
FULWAR  SKIPWITH,  President  of  the  Senate. 
Approved,  December  18,  1814. 

WILLIAM  C.  CLAIBORNE, 
Governor  of  the  state  of  Louisiana. 


NO.  XXIII— XXIV. 

Letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to  the  hon.  Secretary  at   War. 

U.  S.  ship,  Louisiana,  December  28,  1814. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  inform  you  that  on  the  23d  instant,  while 
at  the  bayou  St.  John,  examining  the  batteries  erecting  there  by 
the  navy,  under  the  superintendance  of  captain  Henley  of  the  Caro 
lina,  I  learnt  that  information  had  been  received  by  general  Jack 
son  that  the  enemy  had  penetrated  through  bayou  Bienvenu  with 
a  large  force,  and  had  effected  a  landing  at  general  Villcre's  plan 
tation  bn  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi,  which  upon  application  to 
the  general  proved  to  be  true.  The  alarm  was  immediately  given  in 


APPENDIX.  xliii 

town,  and  the  troops  put  in  motion;  I  repaired  <5n  board  the  Uni 
ted  States'  schooner  Carolina,  with  captain  Henley,  and  after  orc-er- 
ing  the  Louisiana,  commanded  by  lieutenant-commandant  C.  B. 
Thompson,  to  follow  me,  at  4  P.  M.  weighed,  and  it  being  calm, 
dropped  down  with  the  current;  at  about  half  past  six  I  received  a 
request  from  general  Jackson,  through  Mr.  Edward  Livingston,  his 
aid-de-camp,  to  anchor  abreast  of  the  enemy's  camp,  which  he 
pointed  out,  and  open  a  fire  upon  them.  It  continuing  calm,  got 
out  sweeps,  and  a  few  minutes  after,  having  been  frequently  hail 
ed  by  the  enemy's  sentinels,  anchored,  veered  out  a  long  scope  of 
cable,  sheered  close  in  shore  abreast  of  their  camp,  and  commen 
ced  a  heavy  (and  as  I  havq  since  learned  most  destructive)  fire 
from  our  starboard  battery  and  small  arms,  which  was  returned 
most  spiritedly  by  the  enemy  with  congreve  rockets  and  musket 
ry  from  their  whole  force,  when  after  about  forty  minutes  of  most 
incessant  fire,  the  enemy  was  silenced;  the  fire  from  our  battery 
was  continued  till  nine  o'clock  upon  the  enemy's  flank  while  en 
gaged  in  the  field  with  our  army,  at  which  hour  ceased  firing, 
supposing  from  the  distance  of  the  enemy's  fire  (for  it  was  too 
dark  to  see  any  thing  on  shore)  that  they  had  retreated  beyond  the 
range  of  our  gUns — weighed  and  swept  across  the  river,  in  hopes 
of  a  breeze  the  next  morning  to  enable  me  to  renew  the  attack 
upon  the  enemy,  should  they  be  returned  to  their  encampment; 
but  was  disappointed  on  the  24th  by  a  light  air  from  north-north 
west,  which  towards  the  evening,  hauled  toward  northwest,  and 
blew  a  heavy  gale,  compelling  me  to  remain  during  the  24th,  25th, 
and  26th  at  anchor  in  a  position  abreast  of  the  enemy,  although 
every  possible  exertion  was  made  by  captain  Henley  to  warp  the 
schooner  up,  without  success,  from  the  extreme  rapidity  of  the  cur 
rent  occasioned  by  the  very  uncommon  rise  of  the  river.  On  the  af 
ternoon  of  the  26th,  at  the  request  of  general  Jackson,  I  visited  him 
at  his  head-quarters,  and  went  from  thence  to  town  to  equip  and 
arm  with  two  thirty -two-pounders,  such  merchant  vessels  in  port, 
as  I  might  find  capable  of  supporting  them.  During  the  24th,  25th, 
and  26th,  fired  at  the  enemy  whenever  they  could  be  seen.  Ow 
ing  to  the  calmness  of  the  night  of  the  23d,  the  Louisiana  could 
not  join  me  till  the  morning  of  the  24th,  when  she  fortunately 
anchored  about  one  mile  above  the  Carolina.  By  the  fire  from  the 


xliv  APPENDIX. 

enemy  on  the  night  of  the  23d,  one  man  only  was  wounded,  ami 
very  little  injury  done  to  the  hull,  sails,  and  rigging;  in  her  bul 
warks  were  a  great  number  of  musket  balls,  several  in  her  masts 
and  topmasts,  and  through  her  mainsail.  Nothing  could  exceed 
the  incessant  fire  from  the  Carolina,  which  alone  can  be  attributed 
to  the  high  state  of  discipline  to  which  captain  Henley  has  brought 
her  crew.  Of  him,  lieutenants  Norris  and  Crawley,  and  sailing- 
master  Haller,  I  cannot  speak  in  too  high  terms;  the  petty  officers 
and  crew  behaved  with  that  cool  determined  courage  and  zeal 
which  has  so  strongly  characterized  the  American  tars  in  the 
present  war.  I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

D.T.PATTERSON- 
NO.  XXV. 

Cojiy  of  a  letter  from  general  Andrew  Jackson  to  the  secretary  of 

war,  dated 
Camp,  near  New  Orleans,  26th  December ;  1814. 

THE  enemy  having,  by  the  capture  of  our  gun-boats,  obtained 
command  of  the  lakes,  were  enabled  to  effect  a  passage  to  the 
Mississippi  at  a  point  on  the  side  of  New  Orleans,  knd  about  nine 
miles  below  it.  The  moment  I  received  the  intelligence,  I  has 
tened  to  attack  him  in  his  first  position.  It  was  brought  on  in  the 
night  and  resulted  very  honourably  to  our  arms.  The  heavy 
smoke,  occasioned  by  an  excessive  fire,  rendered  it  necessary  that 
I  should  draw  off  my  troops,  after  a  severe  conflict  of  upwards  of 
an  hour. 

The  attack  was  made  on  the  night  of  the  23d.  Since  then 
both  armies  have  remained  near  the  battle-ground,  making  pre 
parations  for  something  more  decisive. 

The  enemy's  force  exceeded  ours  by  double,  and  their  loss 
was  proportionably  greater.  The  moment  I  can  spare  the  time, 
I  will  forward  you  a  detailed  account.  In  the  meantime  I  expect 
something  far  more  important  will  take  place.  I  hope  to  be  able 
to  sustain  tho  honour  of  our  arms  and  to  secure  the  safety  of  this 

country. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 


APPENDIX.  xiv 

Major-general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  of  war. 
Head-quart  era,  7th  military  district,  camp,  below  New  Orleans,  27?A 

December,  A.  M. 
SIR, 

THE   loss  ©f  our  gun-boats  near  the  pass  of  tle?'  Rigolets, 
having  given  the  enemy  command  of  lake  Borgne,  ne  was  ena 
bled  to  choose  his  point  of  attack.     It  became  therefore  an  ob 
ject  of  importance  to  obstruct  the  numerous  bayous  and  canals 
leading  from  that  lake  to  the  highlands  on  the  Mississippi.     This 
important  service  was  committed,  in  the  first  instance,  to  a  detach 
ment  from  the  7th  regiment,  afterwards  to  colonel  Delaronde  of 
the  Louisiana  militia,  and  lastly^  to  make  all  sure,  to  major-general 
Villere,  commanding  the  district  between  the  river  and  the  lakes, 
and  who,  being  a  native  of  the  country,  was  presumed  to  be  best 
acquainted  with  all  those  passes.    Unfortunately,  however,  a  pic- 
quet  which  the  general  had  estiblished  at  the  mouth  of  the  bayou 
Bienvenu,  and  which,  notwithstanding  my  orders,  had  been  left 
unobstructed,  was  completely  sirprised,  and  the  enemy  penetrated 
through  a  canal  leading  to  his  farm  about  two  leagues  below  the 
city,  and  succeeded  in  cuttingoff  a  company  of  militia  stationed 
there.  The  intelligence  was  conmunicated  to  me  about  2  o'clock 
of  the  23d.     My  force,  at  this  ime,  consisted  of  parts  of  the  7th 
and  44th  regiments,  not  exceeding  six  hundred  together,  the  citjr 
militia,  a  part  of  general  Coffee's  brigade  of  mounted  gun-men, 
and  the  detached  militia  from  tie  western  division  of  Tennessee, 
under  the   command  of  major-general  Carrol— these  two  last 
corps  were  stationed  four  miles  above  the  city.     Apprehending  a 
double  attack  by  the  way  of  Chef-Menteur,  I  left  general  Car 
roll's  force,  and  the  militia  of  the  city,  posted  on  the  Gentilly  road; 
and  at  5  o'clock  P.M.  marched  to  meet  the  enemy,  whom  I  was 
resolved  to  attack  in  his  first  position,  with  major  Hind's  dra 
goons,  general  Coffee's  brigade,  parts  of  the  7th  and  44th  regi 
ments,  the  uniform  companies  of  militia  under  the  command  of 
major  Plauche,  two  hundred  men  of  colour  (chiefly  from  St.  Do 
mingo)  raised  by  colonel  Savary  and  acting  under  the  command 
of  major  Daquin,  and  a  detachment  of  artillery  under  the  direction 
of  colonel  M'Rea,  with  two  six -pounders  under  the  command  of 
lieut.  Spots— not  exceeding  in  all  fifteen  hundred.    I  arrived  near 


xlvi  APPENDIX. 

the  enemy's  encampment  about  7,  and  immediately  made  my  dis 
positions  for  the  attack.     His  forces  amounting  at  that  time  on 
land  to  about  three  thousand,  extended  half  a  mile  on  the  river, 
and  in  the  rear  nearly  to  the  wood.     General  Coffee  was  ordered 
to  turn  th^y  right,  while,  with  the  residue  of  the  force,  I  at 
tacked  his  strongest  position  on  the  left,  near  the  river.    Commo 
dore  Patterson  having  dropped  down  the  river  in  the  schooner  Ca 
rolina,  was  directed  to  open  a  fire  upon  their  camp,  which  he  exe 
cuted  at  about  half  after  7.   This  being  the  signal  of  attack,  gene 
ral  Coffee's  men,  with  their  usual  impetuosity,  rushed  on  the  ene 
my's  right,  and  entered  their  camp,  while   our  right  advanced 
with  equal  ardour.     There  can  be  but  little  doubt  that  we  should 
have  succeeded  on  that  occasion,  wth  our  inferior  force,  in  de 
stroying  or  capturing  the  enemy,  had  not  a  thick  fog,  which  arose 
about  8  o'clock,  occasioned  some  confusion  among  the  different 
corps.     Fearing  the   consequences,  under  this  circumstance,  of 
the  further  prosecution  of  a  night  Attack  with  troops  then  acting 
together  for  the  first  time,  I  contested  myself  with  lying  on  the 
field  that  night;  and  at  4  in  the  moning  assumed  a  stronger  posi 
tion  about  two  miles  nearer  to  the  cjty.     At  this  position  I  remain 
encamped,  waiting  the  arrival  of  t}e  Kentucky  militia  and  other 
re-enforcements.     As  the  safety  of  he  city  will  depend  on  the  fate 
of  this  army,  it  must  not  be  incautiously  exposed. 

In  this  affair  the  whole  corps  under  my  command  deserve 
the  greatest  credit.  The  best  compliment  I  can  pay  to  general 
Coffee  and  his  brigade,  is  to  say  (hey  behaved  as  they  have  al 
ways  done  while  under  my  commjtnd.  The  7th,  led  by  major 
Peire,  and  the  44th,  commanded  bf  colonel  Ross,  distinguished:, 
themselves.  The  battalion  of  city  militia,  commanded  by  major 
Plauche,  realized  my  anticipations,  and  behaved  like  veterans— 
Savary's  volunteers  manifested  great  bravery— and  the  company 
of  city  riflemen,  having  penetrated  into  the  midst  of  the  enemy's 
camp,  were  surrounded,  and  fought  their  way  out  with  the  great 
est  heroism,  bringing  with  them  a  number  of  prisoners.  The 
two  field  pieces  were  well  served  by  the  officer  commanding 
them. 

All  my  officers  in  the  line  did  their  duty,  and  I  have  every 
veason  to  be  satisfied  with  the  whole  of  my  field  and  staff. — Colo- 


APPENDIX.  xlvii 

nels  Butler  and  Piatt,  and  major  Chotard,  by  their  intrepidity, 
saved  the  artillery.  Colonel  Haynes  was  every  where  that  duty 
or  danger  called.  I  was  deprived  of  the  services  of  one  of  my 
aids,  captain  Butler,  whom  I  was  obliged  to  station,  to  his  great 
regret  in  town.  Captain  Reid,  my  otter  aid,  and  Messrs.  Liv 
ingston,  Duplessis  and  Davezac,  who  hid  volunteered  their  ser 
vices,  faced  danger  wherever  it  was  to  be  met,  and  carried  my 
orders  wit'/  the  utmost  promptitude. 

We  made  one  major,  two  subalterns,  and  sixty-three  privates 
prisoners;  and  the  enemy's  loss  in  killed  and  wounded  must  have 
been  at  least .  My  own  loss  I  have  not  as  yet  been  able  to  as 
certain  with  exactness,  but  suppose  it  to  amount  to  one  hundred 
in  killed,  wounded  and  missing.  Among  the  former  I  have  to 
lament  the  loss  of  coloned  Lauderdalc  of  general  Coffee's  brigade, 
who  fell  while  bravely  fighting.  Colonels  Dyer  and  Gibson,  of 
the  same  corps,  were  wounded,  and  major  Kavenaugh  taken  pri 
soner. 

Colonel  Delaronde,  major  Villere  of  the  Louisiana  militia, 
major  Latour  of  engineers,  having  no  command,  volunteered  their 
services,  as  did  Drs.  Kerr  and  Flood,  and  were  of  great  assist 
ance  to  me. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 


NO.  XXVI— XXVII. 

Cofiy  of  a  letter  from  cafitain  Henley^  commanding  late  United 
States*  schooner  Carolina,  to  commodore  Patterson,  dated 

New  Orleans,  December  28,  1814. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  inform  you,  that  after  you  left  here  on 
the  26th  instant,  in  pursuance  to  your  order,  every  possible  ex 
ertion  was  made  to  move  the  schooner  Carolina  higher  up  the  ri 
ver  and  near  general  Jackson's  camp,  without  success;  the  wind 
being  at  N.  N.  W.  and  blowing  fresh  and  too  scant  to  get  under 
way,  and  the  current  too  rapid  to  move  her  by  warping,  which  I 
had  endeavoured  to  do  with  my  crew. 

At  daylight,  on  the  morning  of  the  27th,  the  enemy  opened 
upon  the  Carolina  *  battery  of  five  guns,  from  which  they  threw 


xiviii  \       APPENDIX. 

shells  and  hot  shot;  returned  their  fire  with  the  long  twelve-pound 
er,  the  only  gun  on  board  which  could  reach  across  the  river,  the 
remainder  of  her  battery  being  light  twelve-pound  carronactes. 

The  air  being  light  and  at  north,  rendered  it  impossible  to 
get  under  way;  the  second  shot  fired  by  the  enemy  lodged  in  the 
schooner's  main-hold  urider  her  cables,  and  in  such  a  situation  as 
pot  to  be  come  at,  and  Ared  her,  which  rapidly  progressed;  finding 
that  hot  shot  were  passing  through  her  cabin  and  filling  room, 
which  contained  a  considerable  quantity  of  powder;  hec  bulwarks 
all  knocked  down  by  the  enemy's  shot,  the  vessel  in  a  sinking  situa 
tion,  and  the  fire  increasing,  and  expecting  every  moment  that  she 
would  blow  up,  at  a  little  after  sunrise  I  reluctantly  gave  orders 
for  the  crew  to  abandon  her,  which  was  effected,  with  the  loss  of 
one  killed  and  six  wounded;  a.  short  time  after  I  had  succeeded  in 
getting  the  crew  on  shore,  I  had  the  extreme  mortification  of  see 
ing  her  blow  up. 

It  affords  me  great  pleasure  to  acknowledge  the  able  assist 
ance  1  received  from  lieutenants  Norris  and  Crawley,  and  sailing- 
master  Haller,  and  to  say  that  my  officers  and  crew  behaved  on 
this  occasion,  as  well  as  on  the  23d  when  under  your  own  eye,  in  a 
most  gallant  manner. 

Almost  every  article  of  clothing  belonging  to  the  officers  and 
crew,  from  the  rapid  progress  of  the  fire,  was  involved  in  the  de 
struction  of  the  vessel. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 
(Signed)  JOHN  D.  HENLEY. 

P.  S.  I  have  not  made  out  a  detailed  account  of  the  action  on 
the  night  of  the  23d,  as  you  were  on  board  during  the  whole  action. 

Letter  from  major -general  Jackson,  to  the  secretary  of  war,  dated 
Head-quarters,  seventh  military  district, 

Camfi  below  New  Orleans,  December  29,  1814. 
SIR, 

The  enemy  succeeded  on  the  27th  in  blowing  up  the  Caro 
lina  (she  being  becalmed)  by  means  of  hot  shot  from  a  land  bat 
tery  which  he  had  erected  in  the  night.  Emboldened  by  this  event, 
he  marched  his  whole  force  the  next  day  up  the  levee,  in  the  hope 
of  driving  us  from  our  position,  and  with  this  view,  opened  upon 


APPENDIX.  jclix 

us,  at  the  distance  of  about  half  mile,  his  bombs  and  rockets.  He 
was  repulsed,  however,  with  considerable  loss;  not  less,  it  is  be 
lieved,  than  one  hundred  and  twenty  in  killed.  Ours  was  incon 
siderable;  not  exceeding  half  a  dozen  killed  and  a  dozen  wounded. 

Since  then  he  has  not  ventured  to  repeat  his  attempt,  though 
lying  close  together.  There  has  been  frequent  skirmishing  be 
tween  our  picquets. 

I  lament  that  I  have  not  the  means  of  carrying  on  more  of 
fensive  operations.  The  Kentucky  troops  have  not  arrived,  and 
my  effective  force  at  this  point,  does  not  exceed  three  thousand. 
Theirs  must  be  at  least  double;  both  prisoners  and  deserters  agree 
ing  in  the  statement  that  seven  thousand  landed  from  their  boats. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

Cofiy  of  a  letter  from  commodore  Patterson,  commanding  our  na 
val  force  on  the  Orleans  station,  to  the  secretary  of  the  navy, 
dated  U.  S.  ship.  Louisiana,  4  miles  below  JVeiv  Orleans, 

29th  December,   1814. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  inform  you,  that  on  the  morning  of  the 
28th  instant,  at  about  half  past  seven,  perceived  our  advanced-guard 
retreating  towards  our  lines — the  enemy  pursuing;  fired  shot, 
•shells,  and  rockets,  from  field  artillery,  with  which  they  advanced 
on  the  road  behind  the  levee;  sprung  the  ship  to  bring  the  star 
board  guns  to  bear  upon  the  enemy;  at  25  minutes  past  8  A.  M< 
the  enemy  opened  their  fire  upon  the  ship,  with  shells,  hot  shot, 
and  rockets,  which  was  in-stanlly  returned  with  great  spirit  and 
much  apparent  effect,  and  continued  without  intermission  till  one 
P.  M.  when  the  enemy  slackened  their  fire,  and  retreated  with 
a  part  of  their  artillery  from  each  of  their  batteries,  evidently  with 
great  loss.  Two  attempts  were  made  to  screen  one  heavy  piece 
of  ordnance  mounted  behind  the  levee,  with  which  they  threw  hot 
shot  at  the  ship,  and  which  had  been  a  long  time  abandoned  be,- 
fore  they  succeeded  in  recovering  it,  and  then  it  must  have  been 
with  very  great  loss,  as  I  distinctly  saw,  with  the  akl  of  my  glass, 
several  shot  strike  in  the  midst  of  the  men  (seamen)  who  were 
employed  dragging  it  away.  At  3  P.  M.  the  enemy  were  silenced: 
at  4  P.  M.  cea'sed  firing  from  the  ship,  the  enemy  having  retired 
beyond  the  range  of  her  guns.  Many  c. r  t  hei  r  shot  passed  over  the 

£ 


i  APPENDIX, 

ship,  and  their  shells  burst  over  her  decks,  which 
with  their  fragments;  yet,  after  an  incessant  cannonading  of  up 
wards  of  seven  hours,  during  which  time  eight  hundred  shot  were 
fired  from  the  ship,  one  man  only  was  wounded  slightly,  by  the 
piece  of  a  shell,  and  one  shot  passed  between  the  bowsprit  and 
heel  of  the  jib-boom. 

The  enemy  drew  up  his  whole  force,  evidently  with  an  in 
tention  of  assaulting  general  Jackson's  lines,  under  cover  of  his 
heavy  cannon;  but  his  cannonading  being  so  warmly  returned  from 
the  lines  and  ship  Louisiana,  caused  him,  I  presume,  to  abandon 
his  project,  as  he  retired  without  making  the  attempt.  You  will 
have  learned  by  my  former  letters,  that  the  crew  of  the  Louisiana 
is  composed  of  men  of  all  nations,  (English  excepted)  taken  from 
the  streets  of  New  Orleans  not  a  fortnight  before  the  battle;  yet 
I  never  knew  guns  better  served,  or  a  more  animated  fire,  than 
was  supported  from  her. 

Lieutenant  C.  C.  B.  Thompson  deserves  great  credit  for  the 
discipline  to  which  in  so  short  a  time  he  had  brought  such  men, 
two-thirds  of  whom  do  not  understand  English. 

General  Jackson  having  applied  for  officers  and  seamen  to 
work  the  heavy  cannon  on  his  lines  furnished  by  me,  lieutenants 
Norris  and  Crawley,  of  the  late  schooner  Carolina,  instantly  vo 
lunteered,  and  with  the  grAter  part  of  her  crew  were  sent  to 
those  cannon,  which  they  served  during  the  action  herein  detail 
ed.  The  enemy  must  have  suffered  a  great  loss  in  that  day's 
action,  by  the  heavy  fire  from  this  ship  and  general  Jackson's 
lines,  where  the  cannon  was  of  heavy  calibre,  and  served  with 
great  spirit. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  with  great  consideration  and  respect, 
your  obedient  servant,, 

DANIEL  T.  PATTERSON. 


NO.  XXVIIL 

Letter  from  commodore  Patterson  to   the    secretary  of  the  navy. 

Marine  Batteries,  5  miles  below  N.  Or Leans ,  January  2,  1815. 
SIR, 

Finding  the  advantageous  effect  which  resulted  from  the 
flanking-fire  upon  the  enemy  from  the  Louisiana,  as  detailed  in 


APPENDIX.  li 

my  letter  of  the  29th  ultimo,  I  that  night  had  brought  down 
from  the  navy  yard,  and  mounted  in  silence,  a  twenty- four  pounder 
on  shore,  in  a  position  where  it  could  most  annoy  the  enemy  when 
throwing  up  works  on  the  levee  or  in  the  field.  On  the  30th 
opened  upon  the  enemy  with  the  twenty-four  pounder,  which 
drove  them  from  their  works,  the  ship  firing  at  the  same  time 
upon  their  advance,  which  retired  from  the  levee  and  sheltered 
itself  behind  houses,  See.  The  great  effect  produced  by  the  gun 
on  shore,  induced  me  on  the  31st  to  land  from  the  Louisiana  two 
twelve-pounders,  which  I  mounted  behind  the  levee  in  the  most 
advantageous  position,  to  harass  the  flank  of  the  enemy  in  his  ap 
proaches  to  our  lines,  and  to  aid  our  right.  At  four  A.  M.  the 
enemy  opened  a  fire  upon  the  left  of  our  line  with  artillery  and 
musketry,  which  was  returned  most  spiritly  with  artillery  and 
musketry.  At  two  P.  M.  the  enemy  having  retired,  the  firing 
ceased. 

On  the  first  instant,  at  ten  A.  M.  after  a  very  thick  fog,  the 
enemy  commenced  a  heavy  cannonading  upon  general  Jackson's 
lines  and  my  battery,  from  batteries  they  had  thrown  up  during 
the  preceding  night  on  the  levee;  which  was  returned  from  our 
lines  and  my  battery,  and  terminated,  after  a  most  incessant  fire 
from  both  parties  of  nearly  five  hours,  in  the  enemy  being  silenced 
and  driven  from  their  works;  many  of  their  shells  went  immedi 
ately  over  my  battery,  and  their  shot  passed  through  rny  breast 
work  and  embrazures,  without  injuring  a  man.  On  this,  as  on 
the  28th,  I  am  happy  to  say,  that  my  officers  and  men  behaved 
to  my  entire  satisfaction;  but  1  beg  leave  particularly  to  name 
acting  lieutenant  Campbell,  acting  sailing-master  John  Gates, 
acting  midshipman  Philip  Philibert,  of  the  Louisiana,  and  sailing- 
master  Haller,  of  the  late  schooner  Carolina.  I  did  not  drop  the 
Louisiana  down  within  the  range  of  their  shot,  having  learnt  from 
deserters  that  a  furnace  of  shot  was  kept  in  constant  readiness  at 
each  of  their  batteries  to  burn  her;  and  the  guns  being  of  much 
greater  effect  on  shore,  her  men  were  drawn  to  man  them,  and  I 
was  particularly  desirous  to  preserve  her  from  the  hot  shot,  as  I 
deemed  her  of  incalculable  service  to  cover  the  army  in  the  event 
of  general  Jackson  retiring  from  his  present  line  to  those  which 
he  had  thrown  up  in  his  rear. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

DANIEL  T.  PATTERSON- 


Hi  APPENDIX. 

NO.  XXIX. 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  major-general  Jacksc^t  to  the  secretary  qf 

war,  dated 

Cam/2,  four  miles  beloiv  Orleans,  9th  January,  1815. 
SIR, 

During  the  clays  of  the  6th  and  7th,  the  enemy  had  been  ac 
tively  employed  in  making  preparations  for  an  attack  on  my  lines.. 
With  infinite  labour  they  had  succeeded  on  the  night  of  the  7th 
in  getting  their  boats  across  from  the  lake  to  the  river,  by  widen 
ing  and  deepening  the  canal  on  which  they  had  effected  their  dis 
embarkation.  It  had  not  been  in  my  power  to  impede  these  ope 
rations  by  a  general  attack — added  to  other  reasons,  the  nature 
of  the  troops  under  my  command,  mostly  militia,  rendered  it  too 
hazardous  to  attempt  extensive  offensive  movements  in  an  open 
country,  against  a  numerous  and  well-disciplined  army.  Although 
my  forces,  as  to  number,  had  been  increased  by  the  arrival  of  the 
Kentucky  division,  my  strength  had  received  very  little  addition; 
a  small  ponion  only  of  that  detachment  being  provided  with  arms. 
Compelled  thus  to  wait  the  attack  of  the  enemy,  I  took  every 
measure  to  repel  it  when  it  should  be  made,  and  to  defeat  the  ob 
ject  he  had  in  view.  General  Morgan  with  the  Orleans  contin 
gent,  the  Louisiana  militia,  and  a  strong  detachment  of  the  Ken 
tucky  troops,  occupied  an  intrenched  camp  on  the  opposite  side 
of  the  river,  protected  by  strong;  batteries  on  the  bank,  erected  and 
superintended  by  commodore  Patterson. 

In  my  encampment  every  thing  was  ready  for  action,  when 
early  on  the  morning  of  the  8th  the  enemy,  after  throwing  a  heavy 
shower  of  bombs  and  congreve  rockets,  advanced  their  columns 
on  my  right  and  left,  to  storm  my  intrenchments.  I  cannot  speak 
sufficiently  in  praise  of  the  firmness  and  deliberation  with  which  my 
whole  line  received  their  approach.  MORE  could  not  have  been 
expected  from  veterans  inured  to  war.— For  an  hour  the  fire  of 
the  small  arms  was  as  incessant  and  severe  as  can  be  imagined. 
The  artillery,  too,  directed  by  officers  who  displayed  equal  skill 
and  courage,  did  great  execution.  Yet  the  columns  of  the  enemy 
continued  to  advance  with  a  firmness  which  reflects  upon  them 
the  greatest  credit.  Twice  the  column  which  approached  me  on 
my  left,  was  repulsed  by  the  troops  of  general  Carroll,  those  of 


APPENDIX.  Uti 

general  Coffee  and  a  division  of  the  Kentucky  militia,  and  twice 
they  formed  again  and  renewed  the  assault.  At  length,  however, 
cut  to  pieces,  they  fled  in  confusion  from  the  field,  leaving  it  co 
vered  with  their  dead  and  wounded.  The  loss  which  the  enemy 
sustained  on  this  occasion,  cannot  be  estimated  at  less  than  fifteen 
hundred  in  killed,  wounded,  and  prisoners.  Upwards  of  three 
hundred  have  already  been  delivered  over  for  burrvl;  and  my  men 
are  still  engaged  in  picking  them  up  within  my  lines,  and  carry 
ing  them  to  the  point  where  the  enemy  are  to  receive  them.  This 
is  in  addition  to  the  dead  and  wounded  whom  the  enemy  have  been 
enabled  to  carry  from  the  field  during  and  since  the  action,  and 
to  those  who  have  since  died  of  the  wounds  they  received.  We 
have  taken  about  five  hundred  prisoners,  upwards  of  three  hun 
dred  of  whom  are  wounded,  and  a  great  part  of  them  mortally. 
My  loss  has  not  exceeded,  and  I  believe  has  not  amounted  to  ten 
killed  and  as  many  wounded.  The  entire  destruction  of  the  ene 
my's  army  was  now  inevitable,  had  it  not  been  for  an  unfortunate 
occurrence,  which  at  this  moment  took  place  on  the  other  side  of 
the  river.  Simultaneously  with  his  advance  upon  my  lines,  he 
had  thrown  over  in  his  boats  a  considerable  force  to  the  other  side 
of  the  river.  These  having  landed,  were  hardy  enough  to  ad 
vance  against  the  works  of  general  Morgan;  and,  what  is  strange 
and  difficult  to  account  for,  at  the  very  moment  when  their  entire 
discomfiture  was  looked  for  with  a  confidence  approaching  to  cer 
tainty,  the  Kentucky  re-enforcements,  in  whom  so  much  reliance 
had  been  placed,  ingloriously  fled,  drawing  after  them,  by  their 
example,  the  remainder  of  the  forces;  and  thus  yielding  to  the 
enemy  that  most  formidable  position.  The  batteries  which  had 
rendered  me,  for  many  days,  the  most  important  service,  though 
bravely  defended,  were,  of  course,  now  abandoned;  not  however 
until  the  guns  had  been  spiked. 

This  unfortunate  rout  had  totally  changed  the  aspect  of  af 
fairs.  The  enemy  now  occupied  a  position  from  which  they 
might  annoy  us  without  hazard,  and  by  means  of  which  they  might 
have  been  able  to  defeat,  in  a  great  measure,  the  effects  of  our 
success  on  this  side  the  river.  It  became  therefore  an  object  of 
the  first  consequence  to  dislodge  him  as  soon  as  possible.  For 
'-his  objectj  all  the  means  in  my  power,  which  I  could  with  an v 


liv  APPENDIX. 

safety  use,  were  immediately  put  in  preparation.  Perhaps,  how 
ever,  it  was  owing  somewhat  to  another  cause  that  I  succeeded 
even  beyond  my  expectations.  In  negociating  the  terms  of  a  tem 
porary  suspension  of  hostilities,  to  enable  the  enemy  to  bury  their 
dead  and  provide  for  their  wounded,  I  had  required  certain  pro 
positions  to  be  acceded  to  as  a  basis,  among  which  this  was  one—' 
thai,  although  hostilities  should  cease  on  this  side  the  river  until 
twelve  o'clock  of  this  day,  yet  it  was  not  to  be  understood  that 
they  should  cease  on  the  other  side;  but  that  no  re-enforcements 
should  be  sent  across  by  either  army  until  the  expiration  of  that 
day.  His  excellency  major-general  Lambert  begged  time  to  con 
sider  of  those  propositions  until  ten  o'clock  of  to-day,  and  in  the 
meantime  re-crossed  his  troops.  I  need  not  tell  you  with  how 
much  eagerness  I  immediately  regained  possession  of  the  posi 
tion  he  had  thus  happily  quitted. 

The  enemy  having  concentrated  his  forces,  may  again  at 
tempt  to  drive  me  from  my  position  by  storm.  Whenever  he 
does,  I  have  no  doubt  my  men  will  act  with  their  usual  firmness* 
and  sustain  a  character  now  become  dear  to  them. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be.  Sec. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

Copy   of  a  letter  from  major-general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  of 

war,  dated 

Camfij  four  miles  below  New  Or  leans  ^  January  13,  1815. 
SIR, 

At  such  a  crisis  I  conceive  it  my  duty  to  keep  you  constant 
ly  advised  of  my  situation. 

On  the  10th  instant  I  forwarded  you  an  account  of  the  bold 
attempt  made  by  the  enemy  on  the  morning  of  the  8th,  to  take 
possession  of  my  works  by  storm,  and  of  the  severe  repulse  which 
he  met  with.  That  report  having  been  sent  by  the  mail  which 
crosses  the  lake,  may  possibly  have  miscarried;  for  which  reason 
I  think  it  the  more  necessary  briefly  to  repeat  the  substance  of  It. 

Early  on  the  morning  of  the  8th,  the  enemy  having  been  ac 
tively  employed  the  two  preceding  days  in  making  preparations 
for  a  storm,  advanced  in  two  strong  columns  on  my  right  and  left. 
They  were  received  however,  with  a  firmness  which  it  seems  they 
little  expected,  and  which  defeated  all  their  hopes.  My  men,  un- 


APPENDIX.  lv 

disturbed  by  their  approach,  which  indeed  they  had  long  anxious 
ly  wished  for,  opened  upon  them  a  fire  so  deliberate  and  certain, 
as  rendered  their  scaling  ladders  and  fascines,  as  thei?  more  direct 
implements  of  warfare,  perfectly  useless.  For  upwards  of  an 
hour  it  was  continued  with  a  briskness  of  which  there  has  been 
but  few  instances,  perhaps,  in  any  country.  In  justice  to  the  ene 
my  it  must  be  said,  they  withstood  it  as  long  as  could  have 
been  expected  from  the  most  determined  bravery.  At  length, 
however,  when  all  prospects  of  success  became  hopeless,  they 
fled  in  confusion  from  the  field— leaving  it  covered  with  their 
dead  and  wounded.  Their  loss  was  immense.  I  had  first  com 
puted  it  at  fifteen  hundred;  it  is  since  ascertained  to  have  been 
much  greater.  Upon  information  which  is  believed  to  be  correct, 
colonel  Hayne,  the  inspector-general,  reports  it  to  be  in  the  tc- 
tal  two  thousand  six  hundred.  His  report  I  enclose  you.  My 
loss  was  inconsiderable  being  only  seven  killed  and  six  wounded.* 
Such  a  disproportion  in  loss,  when  we  consider  the  number  and 
the  kind  of  troops  engaged,  must,  I  know,  excite  astonishment, 
and  may  not  every  where,  be  fully  credited;  yet  I  am  perfectly 
satisfied  that  the  account  is  not  exaggerated  on  the  one  part,  nor 
underrated  on  the  other. 

The  enemy  having  hastily  quitted  a  post  which  they  had  gain 
ed  possession  of  on  the  other  side  of  the  river,  and  we  having  im 
mediately  returned  to  it,  both  armies  at  present  occupy  their  for 
mer  positions.  Whether,  after  the  severe  loss  he  has  sustained, 
he  is  preparing  to  return  to  his  shipping  or  to  make  still  mightier 
efforts  to  attain  his  first  object,  I  do  not  pretend  to  determine — it 
becomes  me  to  act  as  though  the  latter  were  his  intention.  One 
thing,  however,  seems  certain,  that  if  he  still  calculates  on  effect 
ing  what  he  has  hitherto  been  unable  to  accomplish,  he  must  ex 
pect  considerable  re-enforcements;  as  the  force  with  which  he 
landed  must  undoubtedly  be  diminished  by  at  least  three  thousand. 
Besides  the  loss  which  he  sustained  on  the  night  of  the  23d  ult. 
which  is  estimated  at  four  hundred,  he  cannot  have  suffered  less 
between  that  period  and  the  morning  of  the  8th  inst.  than  three 
hundred — having,  within  that  time,  been  repulsed  in  two  general 

*    This  was  in  the  <kction  on  the  line — afterwards  skirmishing  was  kept 
up,  in  which  a  few  more  of  our  men  were  lost. 


Ivl  APPENDIX. 

attempts  to  drive  us  from  our  position,  and  there  having  been  con 
tinual  cannonading  and  skirmishing  during  the  whole  of  it.  Yet 
he  is  still  ah»e  to  .show  a  very  formidable  force. 

There  is  little  doubt  that  the  commanding  general,  sir  Ed 
ward  Packenham,  was  killed  in  the  action  of  the  8th,  and  that  ma 
jor-generals  Kean  and  Gibbs  were  badly  wounded. 

Whenever  a  more  leisure  moment  shall  occur,  I  will  take  the 
liberty  to  make  out  and  forward  you  a  more  circumstantial  account 
of  the  several  actions,  and  particularly  that  of  the  8th;  in  doing 
which  my  chief  motive  will  be  to  render  justice  to  those  brave 
men  I  have  the  honour  to  command,  and  who  have  so  remarkably- 
distinguished  themselves. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

P.  S.  A  correct  list  of  my  killed  and  wounded  will  be  for 
warded  you  by  the  adjutant-general. 

Letter  from  A.  P.  Hayne,  to  major-general  Jackson,  dated 

Head-quarters-)  left  bank  of  the  Mississippi, 

Jive  miles  below  JVew  Or  leans,  January  13,  1815, 
SIR, 

I  have  the  honour  to  make  the  following  report  of  the  killed, 
wounded,  and  prisoners  taken  at  the  battle  of  Macrardie's  plan 
tation  on  the  left  bank  of  the  Mississippi,  on  the  morning  of  the 
3th  January,  1815,  and  five  miles  below  the  city  of  New  Orleans. 
Killed,  700 

Wounded,  1 400 

Prisoners  taken;  one  major,  four  captains,  eleven 
lieutenants,  one  ensign,  four  hundred  and  eighty-three 
non-commissioned  officers  and  privates,  500 


Making  a  grand  total  of  2600 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

A.  P.  HAYNE. 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  major-general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  of 

war,  dated 

Campy  four  miles  below  New  Orleans,  January  19,  1815, 
Last  night,  at  twelve  o'clock,  the  enemy  precipitately  de 
camped  and  returned  to  his  boats,  leaving  behind  him,  under  me:lv 


APPENDIX.  Ivii 

cal  attendance,  eighty  of  his  wounded  including  two  officers,  four 
teen  pieces  of  his  heavy  artillery,  and  a  quantity  of  shot,  having 
destroyed  much  of  his  powder.  Such  was  the  situation  of  the 
ground  which  he  abandoned,  and  of  that  through  which  he  re 
tired,  protected  by  canals,  redoubts,  intrenchments,  and  swamps 
on  his  right,  and  the  river  on  his  left,  that  I  could  not  without  en 
countering  a  risk,  which  true  policy  did  not  seem  to  require  or  to 
authorize,  attempt  to  annoy  him  much  on  his  retreat.  We  took 
only  eight  prisoners.  , 

Whether  it  is  the  purpose  of  the  enemy  to  abandon  the  ex 
pedition  altogether,  or  renew  his  efforts  at  some  other  point,  I  do 
not  pretend  to  determine  with  positiveness.  In  my  own  mind, 
however,  there  is  but  little  doubt  that  his  last  exertions  have  been 
made  in  this  quarter,  at  any  rate  for  the  present  season,  and  by  the 
next  I  hope  we  shall  be  fully  prepared  for  him.  In  this  belief  I 
am  strengthened  not  only  by  the  prodigious  loss  he  has  sustained 
at  the  position  he  has  just  quitted,  but  by  the  failure  of  his  fleet 
to  pass  fort  St.  Philip. 

His  loss  on  this  ground,  since  the  debarkation  of  his  troops, 
as  stated  by  the  last  prisoners  and  deserters,  and  as  confirmed 
by  many  additional  circumstances,  must  have  exceeded  four  thou 
sand;  and  was  greater  in  the  action  of  the  8th  than  was  estima 
ted,  from  the  most  correct  data  then  in  his  possession,  by  the  in 
spector-general,  whose  report  has  been  forwarded  to  you.  We 
succeeded,  on  the  8th,  in  getting  from  the  enemy  about  one  thou 
sand  stand  of  arms  of  various  descriptions. 

Since  the  action  of  the  8th,  the  enemy  have  been  allowed 
very  little  respite — my  artillery  from  both  sides  of  the  river  be 
ing  constantly  employed  till  the  night,  and  indeed  until  the  hour 
of  their  retreat,  in  annoying  them.  No  doubt  they  thought  it  quite 
time  to  quit  a  position  in  which  so  little  rest  could  be  found. 

I  am  advised  by  major  Overton,  who  commands  at  fort  St. 
Philip,  in  a  letter  of  the  18th,  that  the  enemy  having  bombarded 
his  fort  for  eight  or  nine  days,  from  thirteen-inch  mortars  without 
effect,  had  on  the  morning  of  that  day  retired.  I  have  little  doubt 
that  he  would  have  been  able  to  have  sunk  their  vessels  had  they 
attempted  to  run  by. 

h 


iviii  APPENDIX. 

Giving  the  proper  weight  to  all  these  considerations,  I  believe 
you  will  not  think  me  too  sanguine  in  the  belief  that  Louisiana  is 
now  clear  of  its  enemy.  I  hope,  however,  I  need  not  assure  you, 
that  wherever  I  command,  such  a  belief  shall  never  occasion  any 
relaxation  in  the  measures  for  resistance.  I  am  but  too  sensible 
that  the  moment  when  the  enemy  is  opposing  us,  is  not  the  most 
proper  to  provide  for  them. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

P.  S.  On  the  18th  our  prisoners  on  shore  were  delivered  to 
us,  an  exchange  having  been  previously  agreed  to.  Those  who 
are  on  board  the  fleet  will  be  delivered  at  Petit  Coquille — after 
Which  I  shall  still  have  in  my  hands  an  excess  of  several  hundred. 

20th — Mr.  Shields,  purser  in  the  navy,  has  to-day  taken  fifty- 
four  prisoners;  among  them  are  four  officers.  A.  J. 

Letter  from  adjutant -general  Robert  Butler,  to  brigadier -general 

Parker,  dated 
Head-quarters,    7th    Military  district,  Adjutant -general's  office, 

Jackson* s  JAnes,  below  Orleans,  Jan.  16,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  herewith  to  enclose  for  the  information  of 
the  war  department,  a  report  of  the  killed,  wounded,  and  missing 
of  the  army  under  the  command  of  major-general  Jackson,  in  the 
different  actions  with  the  enemy  since  their  landing. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

ROBERT  BUTLER. 

Report  of  the  killed,  wounded,  and  missing,  of  the  army  under  the 
command  of  major-general  Andrew  Jackson,  in  the  actions  of 
the  23d  and  %8th  of  December  1814,  and  1st  and  8th  of  Janu 
ary,  1815,  with  the  enemy. 

ACTION  OF  DECEMBER  23d,  1814. 

Killed — Artillerymen,  1;  7th  United  States'  infantry,  1  lieu 
tenant  (M'Clellan),  1  sergeant,  1  corporal,  4  privates;  44th  do.  7 
privates;  general  Coffee's  brigade  volunteer  mounted  gun-men,  1 
lieutenant-colonel  (Lauderdale),  1  captain  (Pace),  1  lieutenant 
(Samuel  Brooks),  2  sergeants,  4  privates. — Total  24. 

Wounded — General  staff,  1  colonel  (col.  Piatt) — 7th  United 
States'  infantry,  I  captain  (A.  A.  White),  1  ensign,  1  sergeantj  2 


APPENDIX.  Hx 

corporals,  23  privates;  44th  do.  2  lieutenants,  3  sergeants,  2  cor 
porals,  19  privates;  general  Coffee's  brigade,  1  colonel,  2  lieuten 
ant-colonels,  1  captain,  2  lieutenants,  1  quarter- master  sergeant, 
3  sergeants,  2  corporals,  1  musician,  30  privates;  New  Orleans 
volunteer  corps,  1  captain,  2  sergeants,  7  privates;  volunteers  of 
colour,  1  adjutant  and  6  privates. — Total  wounded,  115. 

Missing — General  Coffee's  brigade;  1  major,  2  captains,  3 
lieutenants,  1  quarter-master,  3  ensigns  or  cornets,  4  sergeants, 
1  corporal,  2  musicians,  57  privates. — Total  missing  74. 

Total  killed,  wounded,  and  missing  on  the  23d — 213. 

ACTION  OF  DECEMBER  28th,  1814. 

Killed — General  Coffee's  brigade,  1  private;  New  Orleans 
volunteer  company,  1  private;  general  Carroll's  division  of  Ten 
nessee  militia,  1  colonel  (Henderson),  1  sergeant,  5  privates- 
Total  9. 

Wounded — Marines,  1  major  (Carmick);  New  Orleans  vo 
lunteer  company,  3  privates;  general  Carroll's  division,  1  lieuten 
ant,  3  privates. — Total  wounded,  8. 

Missing — None. 

Total  killed,  wounded,  and  missing  on  this  day,  1 7. 

ACTION  OF    1st  JANUARY,    1815. 

Killed — Artillery, navy,  and  volunteers  at  batteries,  8  privates; 
44th  ditto,  1  private;  general  Coffee's  brigade,  1  sergeant;  gene 
ral  Carroll's  division,  1  private. -.-Total  1 1 . 

Wounded—  Artillery,  navy,  and  volunteers  at  batteries,  8; 
7th  United  States'  infantry,  1  private;  44th  do.  3;  general^Coffee's 
brigade,  2;  New  Orleans  volunteers,  3  privates;  general  Carroll's 
division,  1  sergeant,  2  privates;  volunteers  of  colour,  1  lieutenant, 
J  sergeant,  1  private.—Total  23. 

Missing — N  one . 

Total  of  killed,  wounded,  and  missing  this  day,  34. 

ACTION  ON  BOTH   SIDES  THE  RIVER,  8th  JANUARY,  1815, 

Killed — Artillery, navy,  and  volunteers  at  batteries,  3  privates; 
7th  United  States'  infantry,  1  sergeant,  1  corporal;  general  Cof 
fee's  brigade,  1  private;  Carroll's  division,  1  sergeant,  3  private^.; 


Ix  APPENDIX. 

Kentucky  militia  1  private;  majors  Lacoste's  and  Dacquin's  vo 
lunteers  of  colour,  1  private;  general  Morgan's  militia,  1  private. 
Total  killed,  13. 

Wounded — Artillery,  &c.  one  private;  7th  United  States'  in 
fantry,  one  private;  general  Carroll's  division,  one  ensign,  one  ser 
geant,  six  privates;  Kentucky  militia,  one  adjutant,  one  corporal, 
and  ten  privates;  volunteers  of  colour,  one  ensign,  three  sergeants, 
one  corporal,  eight  privates;  general  Morgan's  militia,  two  ser 
geants,  two  privates.— Total  wounded,  thirty-nine. 

Missing. — Kentucky  militia,  four  privates;  Morgan's  militia, 
fifteen  privates — Total  nineteen. 

Total  killed,  wounded  and  missing  this  day,  seventy-one. 

NOTE — Of  the  killed,  wounded  and  missing  on  this  day,  but 
six  killed  and  seven  wounded  in  the  action  on  the  east  bank  of  the 
river,  the  residue  in  a  sortie  after  the  action,  and  in  the  action  on 
the  west  bank. 

RECAPITULATION. 

Total  killed,  55 

Total  wounded,  185 

Total  missing,  93 

Grand  Total  333 

Truly  reported  from  those  on  file  in  this  office. 

ROBERT  BUTLER. 

Letter  from   Commodore  Patterson  to  the  Secretary  of  the  Navy. 

Marine  battery, five  miles  below  New  Orleans^  \3th  January,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  inform  you,  that  during  the  2d  and  3d 
instant,  I  landed  from  the  ship  and  mounted,  as  the  former  ones, 
on  the  banks  of  the  river,  four  more  twelve-pounders,  and  erected 
a  furnace  for  heating  shot,  to  destroy  a  number  of  buildings  which 
intervened  between  general  Jackson's  lines  and  the  camp  of  the 
enemy  and  occupied  by  him.  On  the  evening  of  the  4th  I  suc- 
cee4ed  in  firing  a  number  of  them,  and  some  rice  stacks  by  my 
hot  shot,  which  the  enemy  attempted  to  extinguish,  notwithstand 
ing  the  heavy  fire  I  kept  up,  but  which  at  length  compelled  them 
to  desist.  On  the  6th  and  7th  I  erected  another  furnace,  and 
mounted  on  the  banks  of  the  river  two  more  twenty-four  pound- 


APPENDIX.  Ixi 

ers,  which  had  been  brought  up  from  the  English  Turn,  by  the 
exertions  of  colonel  Caldwell,  of  the  drafted  militia  of  this  state, 
and  brought  within  and  mounted  on  the  intrenchments  on  this 
side  the  river,  one  twelve-pounder;  in  addition  to  which,  general 
Morgan,  commanding  the  militia  on  this  side,  planted  two  brass 
six -pound  field  pieces  in  his  lines,  which  were  incomplete,  having 
been  commenced  only  on  the  4th;  these  three  pieces  were  the 
only  cannon  on  the  lines,  all  the  others  being  mounted  on  the 
bank  of  the  river,  with  a  view  to  aid  the  right  of  general  Jack 
son's  lines  on  the  opposite  shore,  and  to  flank  the  enemy  should 
they  attempt  to  march  up  the  road  leading  along  the  levee,  or 
erect  batteries  on  the  same,  of  course  could  render  no  aid  in 
defence  of  general  Morgan's  lines.  My  battery  was  manned  in 
part  from  the  crew  of  the  ship,  and  in  part  by  militia  detailed  for 
that  service  by  general  Morgan,  as  I  had  not  seamen  enough  to 
fully  man  them. 

During  greater  part  of  the  7th,  reconnoitred  the  enemy  at 
Villere's  plantation,  whose  canal,  I  was  informed,  they  were 
deepening  and  opening  to  the  river,  for  the  purpose  of  getting 
their  lanches  in,  which  upon  examination  with  my  glass  I  found 
to  be  true,  and  informed  general  Jackson  of  my  observations  by 
letters,  copies  of  which  I  enclose  herewith;  a  re-enforcement  to 
general  Morgan's  militia  was  made  in  consequence,  consisting 
of  about  four  hundred  militia  from  Kentucky,  very  badly  armed 
or  equipped,  the  general  not  having  arms  to  furnish  them,  who 
arrived  on  this  side  on  the  morning  of  the  8th  much  fatigued. 
At  1  A.  M.  finding  that  the  enemy  had  succeeded  in  lanching 
their  barges  into  the  river,  I  despatched  my  aid-de-camp,  Mr. 
R.  D.  Shepherd,  to  inform  general  Jackson  of  the  circumstance, 
and  that  a  very  uncommon  stir  was  observed  in  the  enemy's  camp 
and  batteries  on  the  banks  of  the  river,  and  stating  again  the  ex 
treme  weakpess  of  this  side  the  river,  and  urging  a  re-enforce 
ment.  I  would  have  immediately  dropped  down  with  the  Louisiana 
upon  their  barges;  but  to  do  so  I  must  have  withdrawn  all  the  men 
from  the  battery  on  shore,  which  I  deemed  of  the  greatest  impor 
tance,  and  exposed  the  vessel  to  fire  by  hot  shot  from  the  enemy's 
batteries,  mounting  six  long  eighteen-pounders,  which  protected 
vheir  barges;  and  at  this  time  she  had  on  board  a  large  quantity  of 


Ixii  APPENDIX. 

powder,  for  the  supply  of  her  own  guns,  and  those  on  shore,  most 
of  which  was  above  the  surface  of  the  water,  consequently  expos 
ed  to  their  hot  shot. 

General  Morgan  despatched  the  Kentuckians  immediately 
on  their  arrival,  about  5  A.  M.  to  re-enforce  a  party  which  had 
been  sent  out  early  on  the  night  of  the  7th,  to  watch  and  oppose 
the  landing  of  the  enemy,  but  who  retreated  after  a  few  shot  from 
the  enemy  within  the  lines,  where  they  were  immediately  posted 
in  their  station  on  the  extreme  right.  At  daylight,  the  enemy 
opened  a  heavy  cannonade  upon  general  Jackson's  lines  and  my 
battery,  leading  their  troops  under  cover  of  their  cannon  to  the 
assault  of  the  lines,  which  they  attempted  on  the  right  and  left,  but 
principally  on  the  latter  wing;  they  were  met  by  a  most  tremen 
dous  and  incessant  fire  of  artillery  and  musketry,  which  compel 
led  them  to  retreat  with  precipitation;  leaving  the  ditch  filled,  and 
the  field  strewed  with  their  dead  and  wounded./^My^attery  was 
opened  upon  them  simultaneously  with  those  from  our  lines, 
flanking  the  enemy  both  in  his  advance  and  retreat  with  round, 
grape  and  canister,  which  must  have  proved  extremely  destruc 
tive,  as  in  their  haste  and  confusion  to  retreat  they  crowded  the 
top  of  the  levee,  affording  us  a  most  advantageous  opportunity  for 
the  use  of  grape  and  canister,  which  I  used  to  the  greatest  -advan 
tage.  While  thus  engaged  with  the  enemy  on  the  opposite  shore, 
I  was  informed  that  they  had  effected  their  landing  on  this  side, 
and  were  advancing  to  general  Morgan's  breastwork.  I  imme 
diately  ordered  the  officers  in  command  of  my  guns  to  turn  them 
in  their  embrazures,  and  point  them  to  protect  general  Morgan's 
right  wing,  whose  lines  not  extending  to  the  swamp,  and  those 
weakly  manned,  I  apprehended  the  enemy's  outflanking  him  on 
that  wing;  which  order  was  promptly  executed  by  captain  Hen 
ley  and  the  officers  stationed  at  the  battery,  under  a  heavy  and  well 
directed  fire  of  shot  and  shells  from  the  enemy  on  the  opposite 
bank  of  the  river.  At  this  time  the  enemy's  force  had  approach 
ed  general  Morgan's  lines,  under  the  cover  of  a  shower  of  rock 
ets,  and  charged  in  despite  of  the  fire  from  the  twelve-pounder 
and  field-pieces  mounted  on  the  lines  as  before  stated;  when  in  a 
few  minutes  I  had  the  extreme  mortification  and  chagrin  to  ob 
serve  general  Morgan's  right  wing,  composed  as  herein  mentioned 


APPENDIX.  Ixu'i 

of  the  Kentucky  militia,  commanded  by  major  Davis,  abandon 
their  breastwork  and  flying  in  a  most  shameful  and  dastardly 
manner,  almost  without  a  shot;  which  disgraceful  example,  after 
firing  a  few  rounds,  was  soon  followed  by  the  whole  of  general 
Morgan's  command,  notwithstanding  every  exertion  was  made 
by  him,  his  staff  and  several  officers  of  the  city  militia,  to  keep 
them  to  their  posts.  By  the  great  exertions  of  those  officers  a 
short  stand  was  effected  on  the  field,  when  a  discharge  of  rockets 
from  the  enemy,  caused  them  again  to  retreat  in  such  a  manner 
that  ne  efforts  could  stop  them. 

Finding  myself  thus  abandoned  by  the  force  I  relied  upon  to 
protect  my  battery,  I  was  most  reluctantly  and  with  inexpressible 
pain,  after  destroying  my  powder  and  spiking  my  cannon,  com 
pelled  to  abandon  them,  having  only  thirty  officers  and  seamen 
with  me.  A  part  of  the  militia  were  rallied  at  a  saw-mill  canal, 
about  two  miles  above  the  lines  from  which  they  had  fled,  and 
there  encamped.  I  ordered  the  Louisiana  to  be  warped  up  for 
the  purpose  of  procuring  a  supply  of  ammunition,  and  mounting- 
other  cannon,  remaining  myself  to  aid  general  Morgan.  A  large 
re-enforcement  of  militia  having  been  immediately  despatched  by 
general  Jackson  to  this  side,  every  arrangement  was  made  by  ge 
neral  Morgan  to  dislodge  the  enemy  from  his  position,  when  he 
precipitately  retreated,  carrying  with  him  the  two  field  pieces 
and  a  brass  howitz,  after  having  first  set  fire  to  the  platforms  and 
gun-carriages  on  my  battery,  two  saw-mills,  and  all  the  bridges 
between  him  and  general  Morgan's  troops,  and  re  crossed  the 
river,  and  secured  his  boats  by  hauling  them  into  his  canal.j|  On 
the  9th  we  re-occupied  our  former  ground,  and  recovereoall  the 
cannon  in  my  battery,  which  I  immediately  commenced  drilling 
and  remounting;  and  on  the  evening  of  the  10th  had  two  twen 
ty-four-pounders  mounted  and  ready  for  service,  on  the  left  flank 
of  a  new  and  more  advantageous  position.  From  the  10th  to  the 
present  date  1  have  been  much  engaged  in  mounting  my  twelve- 
pounders  along  the  breastwork  erected  by  general  Morgan  on 
this  new  position,  having  three  twenty-four  pounders  (with  a  fur 
nace)  to  front  the  river,  and  flank  general  Jackson's  lines  on  the 
opposite  bank,  from  which  we  fired  upon  the  enemy  wherever  he 
appeared.  Our  present  position  is  now  so  strong  that  there  is  no- 


Ixiv  APPENDIX. 

thing  to  apprehend  should  the  enemy  make  another  attempt  ou 
this  side. 

To  captain  Henley,  who  has  been  with  me  since  the  destruc 
tion  of  his  schooner,  and  who  was  wounded  on  the  8th,  I  am 
much  indebted  for  his  aid  on  every  occasion,  and  to  the  officers 
commanding  the  different  guns  in  my  battery,  for  their  great  ex 
ertions  at  all  times,  but  particularly  on  the  trying  event  of  the  8th. 
The  exertions  of  treneral  Morgan,  his  staff,  and  several  of  the 
officers  of  the  city  militia,  excited  my  highest  respect,  and  I  deem 
it  my  duty  to  say  that  had  the  drafted  and  city  militia  been  alone 
on  that  day,  that  I  be  ive  they  would  have  done  much  better; 
but  the  flight  of  the  Kentuckians  paralized  their  exertions  and 
produced  a  retreat,  which  could  not  be  checked.  The  two  brass 
field  pieces,  manned  entirely  by  militia  of  the  city,  were  admira 
bly  served,  nor  were  they  abandoned  till  deserted  by  their  com 
rades,  one  of  which  was  commanded  by  Mr.  Hosmer,  of  captain 
Simpson's  company,  the  other  by  a  Frenchman,  whose  name  I 
know  not.  The  twelve-pounder  under  the  direction  of  acting 
midshipman  Philibert,  was  served  till  the  last  moment,  did  great 
execution,  and  is  highly  extolled  by  general  Morgan.  The  force 
of  the  enemy  on  this  side  amounted  to  one  thousand  men,  and 
from  the  best  authority  I  can  obtain,  their  loss  on  this  side,  I  have 
since  learned,  was  ninety-seven  killed  and  wounded;  among  the 
latter  is  colonel  Thornton  who  commanded;  of  the  former  five  or 
six  have  been  discovered  buried,  and.  lying  upon  the  field;  our  loss 
was  one  man  killed  and  several  wounded. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  See. 

DANIEL  T.  PATTERSON. 


NO.  XXX. 

Address  of  the  major-general  commanding  the  7th  military  district^ 
to  the  troops  stationed  on  the  right  bank  of  the  Mississippi. 

January  8,  1815. 

WHILE  by  the  blessing  of  Heaven  directing  the  valour  of  the 
troops  under  my  command,  one  of  the  most  brilliant  victories  in 
the  annals  of  the  war,  was  obtained  by  my  immediate  command; 
no  words  can  express  the  mortification  I  felt  at  witnessing  the 


APPENDIX.  Ixv 

scene  exhibited  on  the  opposite  bank.  I  will  spare  your  feelings 
and  my  own  by  entering  into  no  detail  on  the  subject;  to  all  who 
reflect,  it  must  be  a  source  of  eternal  regret,  that  a  few  moments 
exertion  of  that  courage  you  certainly  possess,  was  alone  wanting  to 
have  rendered  your  success  more  complete  than  that  of  your  fellow 
citizens  in  this  camp,  by  the  defeat  of  the  detachment  which  was 
rash  enough  to  cross  the  river  to  attack  you.  To  what  cause  was  the 
abandonment  of  your  lines  owing?  To  fear?  No!  You  are  the  coun 
trymen,  the  friends,  the  brothers  of  those  who  have  secured  to  them 
selves  by  their  courage,  the  gratitude  of  their  country;  who  have 
been  prodigal  of  their  blood  in  its  defence.- .\£»d  who  are  strangers 
to  any  other  fear  than  that  of  disgrace — to  disaffection  to  our  glo 
rious  cause?  No,  my  countrymen,  your  general  docs  justice  to  the 
pure  sentiments  by  which  you  are  inspired.  How  then  could  brave 
men,  firm  in  the  cause  in  which  they  were  enrolled,  neglect  theiy 
first  duty,  and  abandon  the  post  committed  to  their  care?  The  wan* 
of  discipline,  the  want  of  order,  a  total  disregard  to  obedience,  and 
a  spirit  of  insubordination,  not  less  destructive  than  cowardice  it 
self,  this  appears  to  be  the  cause  which  led  to  the  disaster,  and 
the  causes  must  be  eradicated,  or  I  must  cease  to  command;  and 
I  desire  to  be  distinctly  understood,  that  every  breach  of  orders., 
all  want  of  discipline,  every  inattention  of  duty  will  be  serious 
ly  and  promptly  punished,  that  the  attentive  officers,  and  good 
soldiers  may  not  be  mentioned  in  the  disgrace  and  danger  which 
the  negligence  of  a  few  may  produce.  Soldiers!  you  want  only 
the  will,  in  order  to  emulate  the  glory  of  your  fellow  citizens  on 
this  bank  of  the  river-— you  have  the  same  motives  for  action.; 
the  same  interest;  the  same  country  to  protect,  and  you  liave  an 
additional  interest  from  past  events,  to  wipe  off  the  stain  and  show., 
what,  no  doubt,  is  the  fact,  that  you  will  not  be  inferior  in  the  day 
of  trial  to  any  of  your  countrymen. 

But  remember,  that  without  obedience,  without  order,  with? 
out  discipline,  all  your  efforts  are  vain,  and  the  brave  man,  inat 
tentive  to  his  duty,  is  worth  little  more  to  his  country  than  the 
coward  who  deserts  her  in  the  hour  of  danger.  Private  opinions, 
as  to  the  competency  of  officers,  must  not  be  indulged,  and  still 
less  expressed;  it  is  impossible  that  the  measure  of  those  who 
command  should  satisfy  all  who  are  bound  to  obey,  and  one  of  the 

i 


lx\i  APPENDIX. 

most  dangerous  faults  in  a  soldier  is  a  disposition  to  criticise  and 
blame  the  orders  and  characters  of  his  superiors.  Soldiers!  I 
know  that  many  of  you  have  done  your  duty;  and  I  trust  in  my 
next  address,  I  shall  have  no  reason  to  make  any  exception.  Offi 
cers!  I  have  the  fullest  confidence  that  you  will  enforce  obedience 
to  your  commands,  and  above  all,  that  by  subordination  in  your 
different  grades,  you  will  set  the  example  of  it  to  your  men;  and 
that  hereafter  the  army  of  the  right  will  yield  to  none  in  the  es 
sential  qualities  which  characterize  good  soldiers;  and  that  they 
will  earn  their  share  of  those  honours  and  rewards,  which  their 
country  will  prepare  for  its  deliverers. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

NO.  XXXI. 

Provisional  article&agreed  on  between  major  Smithy  authorized  by 
major-general  Lambert,  and  Edward  Livingston,  an  aid-de 
camp   to  major-general  Jackson,  authorized  by  him  for  that 
fiurnose,  subject  to  the  ratification  of  the  respective  comman 
ders  of  the  two  armies  between  the  lines.       January  17,  1815. 
Article  1st.  It  being  understood  that  admiral-  sir  Alexander 
Cochrane  has  sent,  or  will  immediately  send  the  American  prison 
ers,  as  well  of  the  army  as  of  the  navy,  now  on  board  the  British 
fleet,  to  the  mouth  of  the  Rigolets,  it  is  agreed  that  a  nominal  and 
descriptive  receipt  shall  be  given  for  the  same  upon  honour,  and 
that  on  the  receipt  of  the  said  prisoners  a  number  of  British  pri 
soners  equal  in  rank  and  number  to  those  so  sent  to  the  Rigolets. 
together  with  those  confined  in  the  British  camp,  shall  be  sent  to 
the  mouth  of  the  river  and  be  received  by  ships  appointed  for  that 
purpose  by  the  admiral. 

Art.  2d.  At  the  same  time  all  the  prisoners  now  in  the  Bri 
tish  camp,  shall  be  sent  to  the  American  lines,  and  receipted  for 
as  above,  not  to  serve  until  an  equal  number  of  English  prisoners 
shall  be  delivered. 

Art.  3rd.  Officers  of  equal  rank  shall  be  exchanged  for  equal 
rank,  and  wounded  for  wounded,  as  far  as  circumstances  will  per 
mit. 

EDWARD  LIVINGSTON. 

II.  SMITH,  Major. 
I  approve  and  ratify  the  above  arrangement. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 


APPENDIX. 


NO.  XXXII. 

Letter  from  ma  jor  '-general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war^dated 

If.  Q.  camii,  four  miles  below  J\f\  Orleans*)  January  19,  1815, 
SIR, 

Last  night  at  twelve  o'clock  the  enemy  precipitately  decamp 
ed,  leaving  behind  him,  under  medical  attendance,  eighty  of  his 
wounded,  including  two  officers,  fourteen  pieces  of  artillery,  and 
a  considerable  quantity  of  shot,  having  destroyed  much  of  his 
powder. 

Such  was  the  situation  of  the  ground  which  he  abandoned, 
and  that  through  which  he  retired,  protected  by  canals,  redoubts, 
and  intrenchments  on  his  right,  and  the  river  on  his  left,  that  I 
could  not,  without  encountering  a  risk  which  true  policy  did 
not  seem  to  require  or  authorize,  annoy  him  much  on  his  retreat. 
We  took  only  eight  prisoners. 

Whether  it  is  the  purpose  of  the  enemy  to  abandon  the  ex 
pedition  altogether,  or  renew  his  efforts  at  some  other  point,  I 
shall  not  pretend  to  decide  with  positiveness;  in  my  own  mind, 
however,  there  is  very  little  doubt  but  his  last  exertions  have 
been  made  in  this  quarter,  at  any  rate  for  the  present  season,  and 
by  the  next,  if  he  shall  choose  to  revisit  us,  I  hope  we  shall  be  ful 
ly  prepared  for  him.  In  this  belief  I  am  strengthened,  not  only  by 
the  prodigious  loss  he  sustained  at  the  position  he  has  just  quitted, 
but  by  the  failure  of  his  fleet  to  pass  fort  St.  Philip.      His  loss 
since  the  debarkation  of  his  troops,  as  stated  by  all  the  last  prison 
ers  and  deserters,  and  as  confirmed  by  many  additional  circum 
stances,  exceed  in  the  whole  four  thousand  men,  and  was  greater 
in  the  action  of  the  8th,  than  from  the  most  correct  data  then  in 
his  power,  was  estimated  by  the  inspector-general,  whose  report 
has  been  forwarded  you.     I  am  more  and  more  satisfied  in  the 
belief,  that  had  the  arms  reached  us  which  was  destined  for  us, 
the  whole  British  army  in  this  quarter  would,  before  this  time,  have 
been  captured  or  destroyed.     We  succeeded,  however,  on  that 
day,  in  getting  from  the  enemy  about  one  thousand  stand  of  arms 
of  various  descriptions.   Since  that  action  I  have  allowed  the  ene 
my  very  little  respite.     My  artillery  from  both  sides  of  the  river, 
being  constantly  employed  till  the  night  and  the  hour  of  their  re- 


Ixviii  APPENDIX. 

treat,  in  annoying  them.  It  was  time  to  quit  a  position  in  which 
so  little  rest  could  be  enjoyed. 

I  am  advised  by  major  Overton,  who  commands  fort  St.  Phi 
lip,  in  a  letter  of  the  18th,  that  the  enemy  having  bombarded  his 
fort  for  eight  or  nine  days,  with  some  thirteen-inch  shells,  without 
producing  any  important  effect,  had  on  the  morning  of  that  day 
retired.  Giving  the  proper  weight  to  all  these  considerations,  I 
believe  you  will  not  think  me  too  sanguine  in  the  belief  that  Lou 
isiana  is  now  clear  of  its  enemy. 

I  hope  I  need  not  assure  you,  however,  that  wherever  I  com 
mand,  such  a  belief  shall  not  occasion  any  relaxation  in  the  pre 
parations  for  resistance.  I  am  but  too  sensible,  that  the  moment 
when  the  enemy  is  opposing  us,  is  not  the  most  proper  for  making 

any  preparation. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

ANDREW  JACKSOV. 


NO.  XXXIII. 

Letter  from  major-general  Jackson  to  the  Rev.  Abbe  Dubourg. 

H,  Q.  seventh  military  district,  January  19,  1815. 
REVEREND  SIR, 

The  signal  interposition  of  Heaven,  in  giving  success  to  our 
arms  against  the  enemy,  who  so  lately  landed  on  our  shores;  an 
enemy  as  powerful  as  inveterate  in  his  hatred;  while  it  must  ex 
cite  in  every  bosom  attached  to  the  happy  government  under  which 
\ve  live,  emotions  of  the  liveliest  gratitude,  requires  at  the  same 
tipne  some  external  manifestation  of  those  feelings. 

Permit  me,  therefore,  to  entreat,  that  you  will  cause  the  ser 
vice  of  public  thanksgiving  to  be  performed  in  the  cathedral,  in 
token  of  the  great  assistance  we  have  received  from  the  Ruler  of 
all  events,  and  of 'our  humble  sense  of  it. 

With  the  greatest  respect, 

ANDRKW  JACKSON 


APPENDIX.  Ixix 

NO.  XXXIV. 

DEFENCE    OF    FORT    ST.    PHILIP. 

Extract  of  a  letter  from  major-general  Andrew  Jackson,  to  tht 
secretary  of  war,  dated  Head  Quarters,  Seventh  Military  Dis 
trict,  New  Orleans,  \7th  February,  1815. 

I  have  the  honoui  to  enclose  you  major  Overtoil's  report  of 
the  attack  of  fort  St.  Philip,  and  of  the  manner  in  which  it  was 
defended. 

The  conduct  of  that  officer  and  of  those  who  acted  under 
him,  merits,  I  think,  great  praise.  They  nailed  their  own  co 
lours  to  the  standard  and  placqd  those  of  the  enemy  underneath 
them,  determined  never  to  surrender  the  fort. 

Cofiy  of  a  letter  from  major  Overton,  commanding  fort  St.  P/tiliJi, 
during  the  late  bombardment  of  it,  to  major-general  Jackson. 

Fort  St.  Philiji,  January  \3th,  181£. 
SIR, 

On  the  1st  of  the  present  month,  I  received  information 
that  the  enemy  intended  passing  this  fort  to  co-operate  with  their 
land  forces,  in  the  subjugation  of  Louisiana,  and  the  destruction 
of  the  city  of  New  Orleans.  To  effect  this  with  more  facility, 
they  were  first  with  their  heavy  bomb-vessels  to  bombard  this 
place  into  compliance.  On  the  grounds  of  this  information,  I 
turned  my  attention  to  the  security  of  my  command:  I  erected 
small  magazines  in  different  parts  of  the  garrison,  that  if  one  blew 
up  I  could  resort  to  another;  built  covers  for  my  men  to  secure 
them  from  the  explosion  of  the  shells,  and  removed  the  combus 
tible  matter  without  the  work.  Early  in  the  day  of  the  8th  in 
stant,  1  was  advised  of  their  approach,  and  on  the  9th  at  a  quarter 
past  ten  A.  M.  hove  in  sight  two  bomb-vessels,  one  sloop,  one 
brig,  and  one  schooner;  they  anchored  two  and  a  quarter  miles 
below.  At  half  past  eleven,  and  at  half  past  twelve  they  advanced 
two  barges,  apparently  for  the  purpose  of  sounding  within  one  and 
a  half  mile  of  the  fort;  at  this  moment  I  ordered  my  water  battery, 
under  the  command  of  lieutenant  Cunningham,  of  the  navy,  to 
open  upon  them;  its  well  directed  shot  caused  a  precipitate  re- 


Ixx  APPENDIX. 

treat.  At  half  past  three  o'clock,  P.  M .  the  enemy's  bomb-ves 
sels  opened  their  fire  from  four  sea-mortars,  two  of  thirteen  inches, 
two  of  ten,  and  to  my  great  mortification  I  found  they  were  with 
out  the  effective  range  of  my  shot,  as  many  subsequent  experi 
ments  proved;  they  continued  their  fire  with  little  intermission 
during  the  I0th,  11th,  12th,  loth,  14th,  15th,  16th,  and  17th.  I 
occasionally  opened  my  batteries  on  them  with  great  vivacity, 
particularly  when  they  showed  a  disposition  to  change  their  po 
sition.  On  the  17th  in  the  evening,  our  heavy  mortar  was  said  to 
be  in  readiness.  I  ordered  that  excellent  officer  captain  Wol- 
stone craft  of  the  artillerists,  who  previously  had  charge  of  it,  to  open 
a  fire,  which  was  done  with  great  effect,  as  the  enemy  from  that 
moment  became  disordered,  and  at  daylight  on  the  18th  com 
menced  their  retreat,  after  having  thrown  upwards  of  a  thousand 
heavy  shells,  besides  small  shells  from  howitzers,  round  shot  and 
grape,  which  he  discharged  from  boats  under  cover  of  the  night. 

Our  loss  in  this  affair  has  been  uncommonly  small,  owing  en 
tirely  to  the  great  pains  that  was  taken  by  the  different  officers  to 
keep  their  men  under  cover;  as  the  enemy  left  scarcely  ten  feet  of 
this  garrison  untouched. 

The  officers  and  soldiers  through  this  whole  affair,  although 
nine  days  and  nights  under  arms  in  the  different  batteries,  the  con 
sequent  fatigue  and  loss  of  sleep,  have  manifested  the  greatest 
firmness  and  the  most  zealous  warmth  to  be  at  the  enemy.  To 
distinguish  individuals  would  be  a  delicate  task  as  merit  was  con 
spicuous  every  where.  Lieutenant  Cunningham  of  the  navy,  who 
commanded  my  water  battery,  with  his  brave  crew,  evinced  the 
most  determined  bravery  and  uncommon  activity  throughout; 
and  in  fact,  'sir,  the  only  thing  to  be  regretted  is  that  the  enemy 
was  too  timid  to  give  us  an  opportunity  of  destroying  him. 

I  herewith  enclose  you  a  list  of  the  killed  and  wounded. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

W.    H.    OVERTON. 

A  list  of  the  killed  and  wounded  during  the  bombardment  of  fort  Sf. 
Philip,  commencing  on  the  9th  and  ending  on  the  18th  of  Janu 
ary,  1815. 

Captain  Wolstonecraft's  artillery — Wounded  3. 

Captain  Murry's  artillery — Killed  2j  wounded  1 


APPENDIX. 

Captain  Bronten's  infantry — Wounded  1. 
Captain  Wade's  infantry — Wounded  2. 
Total  killed  2;  wounded  7. 


NO.  XXXV. 

An  address  delivered  (o  the  commander -in-chief  of  the  seventh  mi 
litary  district,  major-general  Andrew  Jackson,  at  the  ceremony 
of  solemn  thanksgiving,  after  his  brilliant  defence  of  New  Or 
leans.  By  the  reverend  W.  Dubourg,  administrator  afiostolic 
of  the  diocese  of  Louisiana. 
GENERAL, 

Whilst  the  state  of  Louisiana,  in  the  joyful  transports  of  her 
gratitude,  hails  you  as  her  deliverer,  and  the  asserter  of  her  mena 
ced  liberties — whilst  grateful  America,  so  lately  wrapped  up  in 
anxious  suspense,  on  the  fate  of  this  important  city,  the  emporium 
of  the  wealth  of  one  half  of  her  territory,  and  the  true  bulwark  of 
its  independence,  is  now  re-echoing  from  shore  to  shore  your 
splendid  achievements,  and  preparing  to  inscribe  your  name  on 
her  immortal  rolls,  among  those  of  her  Washingtons — whilst  his 
tory,  poetry,  and  the  monumental  arts  will  vie  in  consigning  to 
the  admiration  of  the  latest  posterity,  a  triumph  perhaps  unpa 
ralleled  in  their  records— whilst  thus  raised  by  universal  accla 
mation  to  the  very  pinnacle  of  fame  and  ascending  clouds  of  in 
cense,  how  easy  it  had  been  for  you,  general,  to  forget  the  prime 
Mover  of  your  wonderful  successes,  and  to  assume  to  yourself  a 
praise  which  must  essentially  return  to  that  exalted  source  whence 
every  sort  of  merit  is  derived.  But  better  acquainted  with  the 
nature  of  true  glory,  and  justly  placing  the  summit  ofj  your  ambi 
tion  in  approving  yourself  the  worthy  instrument  of  Heaven's 
merciful  designs,  the  first  impulse  of  your  religious  heart  was 
to  acknowledge  the  signal  interposition  of  Providence — your 
first  step  is  a  solemn  display  of  your  humble  sense  of  His  favours. 
Still  agitated  at  the  remembrance  of  those  dreadful  agonies 
from  which  we  have  been  so  miraculously  rescued,  it  is  our 
pride  also  to  acknowledge  that  the  Almighty  has  truly  had  the 
principal  hand  in  our  deliverance,  and  to  follow  you,  general,  in 
attributing  to  his  infinite  goodness  the  homage  of  our  unfeigned 


Ixxii  APPENDIX. 

gratitude.  Let  the  infatuated  votary  of  a  blind  chance  deride  our 
credulous  simplicity;  let  the  cold-hearted  atheist  look  up  for  the 
explanation  of  such  important  events  to  the  mere  concatenation 
of  human  causes;  to  us,  the  \vhole  universe  is  loud  in  proclaiming 
a  supreme  Ruler,  who  as  he  holds  the  hearts  of  man  in  his  hands, 
holds  also  the  thread  of  all  contingent  occurrences.  "  Whatever 
be  His  intermediate  agents,"  says  an  illustrious  prelate,  "  still  on 
the  secret  orders  of  His  all-ruling  providence,  depend  the  rise  and 
prosperity,  as  well  as  the  decline  and  downfall  of  empires.  From 
His  lofty  throne  above  he  moves  every  scene  below,  now  curbing, 
now  letting  loose  the  passions  of  men;  now  infusing  His  own  wis 
dom  into  the  leaders  of  nations;  now  confounding  their  boasted 
prudence,  and  spreading  upon  their  councils  a  spirit  of  intoxica 
tion,  and  thus  executing  his  uncontrollable  judgments  on  the  sons 
of  men,  according  to  the  dictates  of  His  own  unerring  justice." 

To  Him,  therefore,  our  most  fervent  thanks  are  due  for  our 
late  unexpected  rescue,  and  it  is  Him  we  chiefly  intend  to  praise, 
when  considering  you,  general,  as  the  man  of  Ms  right  hand,  whom 
he  has  taken  pains  to  fit  out  for  the  important  commission  of  our 
defence;  we  extol  that  fecundity  of  genius,  by  which,  in  an  instant 
of  the  most  discouraging  distress,  you  created  unforeseen  resour 
ces,  raised  as  it  were,  from  the  ground,  hosts  of  intrepid  warriors, 
and  provided  every  vulnerable  point  with  ample  means  of  defence. 
To  Him  we  trace  that  instinctive  superiority  of  your  mind,  which 
at  once  rallied  around  you  universal  confidence;  impressed  one 
irresistible  movement  to  all  the  jarring  elements  of  which  this 
political  machine  is  composed;  aroused  their  slumbering  spirits, 
and  diffused  through  every  rank  that  noble  ardour  which  glowed 
in  your  own  bosom.  To  Him  in  fine,  we  address  our  acknow 
ledgments  for  that  consummate  prudence  which  defeated  all  the 
combinations  of  a  sagacious  enemy,  entangled  him  in  the  very 
snares  which  he  had  spread  before  us,  and  succeeded  in  effect 
ing  his  utter  destruction,  without  once  exposing  the  lives  of  our 
citizens.  Immortal  thanks  be  to  His  supreme  majesty,  for  send 
ing  us  such  an  instrument  of  his  bountiful  designs!  A  gift  of  that 
value  is  the  best  token  of  the  continuance  of  his  protection — the 
most  solid  encouragement  to  us  to  sue  for  new  favours.  The 
fi'rst  which  it  emboldens  us  humbly  to  supplicate  as  it  is  the  nearer 


APPENDIX.  Ixxiii 

td  our  throbbing  hearts,  is  that  you  may  long  enjoy,  general, 
the  honour  of  your  grateful  country,  of  which  you  will  permit  us 
to  present  you  a  pledge  in  this  wreath  of  laurel,  the  prize  of  vic 
tory,  the  symbol  of  immortality.  The  next  is  a  speedy  and  ho 
nourable  termination  of  the  bloody  contest  in  which  we  are  engag 
ed.  No  one  has  so  efficaciously  laboured  as  you,  general,  for  the 
acceleration  of  that  blissful  period;  may  we  soon  reap  that  sweetest 
fruit  of  your  splendid  and  uninterrupted  victories. 

GENERAL  JACKSON*S  ANSWER. 

Reverend  sz>y— I  receive  with  gratitude  and  pleasure  the  sym 
bolical  crown  which  piety  has  prepared.  I  receive  it  in  the  name 
of  the  brave  men  who  have  so  effectually  seconded  my  exertions 
for  the  preservation  of  their  country — they  well  deserve  the  laurels 
which  their  country  will  bestow. 

For  myself,  to  have  been  instrumental  in  the  deliverance  of 
such  a  country,  is  the  greatest  blessing  that  heaven  could  confer. 
That  it  has  been  effected  with  so  little  loss — that  so  few  tears 
should  cloud  the  smiles  of  our  triumph,  and  not  a  cypress  leaf  be 
interwoven  in  the  wreath  which  you  present,  is  a  source  of  the 
most  exquisite  enjoyment. 

I  thank  you,  reverend  sir,  most  sincerely  for  the  prayers 
which  you  offer  up  for  my  happiness.  May  those  your  patriotism 
dictates  for  our  beloved  country,  be  first  heard.  And  may  mine 
for  your  individual  prosperity  as  well  as  that  of  the  congregation 
committed  to  your  care,  be  favourably  received — the  prosperity, 
the  wealth,  the  happiness  of  this  city,  will  then  be  commensurate 
with  the  courage  and  other  qualities  of  its  inhabitants. 


NO.  XXXVI. 

To  Nicholas  Giro.d,  Esq.  Mayor  of  the  City  of  New  Orleans. 

Head-quarters,  7th  military  district,  January  27,  1815, 
Sin, 

DEEPLY  impressed  since  my  arrival  with  the  unanimity  and 
patriotic  zeal  displayed  by  the  citizens  over  whom  you  so  worthily 
preside,  I  should  be  inexcusable  if  any  other  occupation  than  that 

k 


Ixxiv  APPENDIX, 

of  providing  for  their  defence  had  prevented  my  public  acknow 
ledgment  of  their  merits.  I  pray  you  now,  sir,  to  communicate  to 
the  inhabitants  of  your  respectable  city,  the  exalted  sense  I  enter 
tain  of  their  patriotism,  love  of  order,  and  attachment  to  the  prin 
ciples  of  our  excellent  constitution.  The  courage  they  have  shown 
in  a  period  of  no  common  danger,  and  the  fortitude  with  which 
they  have  rejected  all  the  apprehensions  which  the  vicinity  of  the 
enemy  was  calculated  to  produce,  are  not  more  to  be  admired  than 
their  humane  attention  to  our  own  sick  and  wounded,  as  well  as 
to  those  of  that  description  among  the  prisoners.  The  liberality 
with  which  their  representatives  in  the  city  council  provided  for 
the  families  of  those  who  were  in  the  field,  evinced  an  enlightened 
humanity,  and  was  productive  of  the  most  beneficial  effects.  Sel 
dom  in  any  community,  has  so  much  cause  been  given  for  de 
served  praise;  while  the  young  were  in  the  field,  and  arrested  the 
progress  of  the  foe,  the  aged  watched  over  the  city,  and  main 
tained  its  internal  peace;  and  even  the  softer  sex  encouraged  their 
husbands  and  brothers  to  remain  at  the  post  of  danger  and  duty. 
Not  content  with  exerting  for  the  noblest  purpose  that  powerful 
influence  which  is  given  them  by  nature  (and  which  in  your  coun 
trywomen  is  rendered  irresistible  by  accomplishments  and  beauty) 
they  showed  themselves  capable  of  higher  efforts,  and,  actuated 
by  humanity  and  patriotism,  they  clothed  by  their  own  labour,  and 
protected  from  the  inclemency  of  the  season  the  men  who  had 
marched  from  a  distant  state  to  protect  them  from  insults.  In  the 
name  of  those  brave  men,  I  beg  you,  sir,  to  convey  to  them  the 
tribute  of  our  admiration  and  thanks;  assure  them  that  the  distant 
wives  and  daughters  of  those  whom  they  have  succoured  will  re 
member  them  in  their  prayers;  and  that  for  myself  no  circum 
stance  of  this  important  campaign  touches  me  with  more  exqui 
site  pleasure  than  that  I  have  been  enabled  to  lead  back  to  them, 
with  so  few  exceptions,  the  husbands,  brothers,  and  other  rela 
tives  of  whom  such  women  only  are  worthy. 

I  anticipate,  sir,  writh  great  satisfaction,  the  period  when  the 
final  departure  of  the  enemy  will  enable  you  to  resume  the  ordi 
nary  functions  of  your  office,  and  restore  the  citizens  to  their  usual 
occupations — they  have  merited  the  blessings  of  peace  by  bravely 
facing  the  dangers  of  war. 


APPENDIX.  Ixxv 

I  should  be  ungrateful  or  insensible,  if  I  did  not  acknowledge 
the  marks  of  confidence  and  affectionate  attachment  with  which  I 
have  personally  been  honoured  by  your  citizens;  a  confidence  that 
has  enabled  me  with  greater  success  to  direct  the  measures  for 
their  defence,  an  attachment  which  I  sincerely  reciprocate,  and 
which  I  shall  carry  with  me  to  the  grave. 

For  yourself,  Mr.  Mayor,  I  pray  you  to  accept  my  thanks  for 
the  very  great  zeal,  integrity,  and  diligence  with  which  you  have 
conducted  the  arduous  department  of  the  police  committed  to 
your  care,  and  the  promptitude  with  which  every  requisition  for 
the  public  service  has  been  carried  into  effect. 

Connected  with  the  United  States,  your  city  must  become  the 
greatest  emporium  of  commerce  that  the  world  has  known.  In 
the  hands  of  any  other  power  it  can  be  nothing  but  a  wretched 
colony.  May  your  citizens  always  be  as  sensible  of  this  great 
truth  as  they  have  shown  themselves  at  present:  may  they  always 
make  equal  efforts  to  preserve  the  important  connexion,  and  may 
you,  sir,  long  live  to  witness  the  prosperity,  wealth  and  happiness 
that  will  then  inevitably  characterize  the  great  seaport  of  the 
western  world. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 
(Signed)  ANDREW  JACKSON. 


NO.  XXXVII. 

Letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  major-general  Thomas. 

New  Or  leans  ^  February  25th,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  enclose  you  a  resolution  of  the  general 
assembly  of  Louisiana,  from  which  you  will  perceive  the  grateful 
sense  which  is  entertained  of  the  services  rendered  to  this  state, 
"  by  our  brave  brother  soldiers  from  Tennessee,  Kentucky  and  the 
Mississippi  Territory,  and  their  gallant  leaders." 

It  is  the  pride  of  America  to  see  her  brave  defenders  guide 
the  plough  or  front  her  enemies,  as  the  national  interest  and  safety 
shall  advise.  To  such  citizen  soldiers  do  we  chiefly  commit  the 
protection  of  our  dearest  rights—the  defence  of  our  beloved  coun- 


Ixxvi  APPENDIX. 

try:  and  that  we  may  continue  to  do  so,  and  with  confidence,  the 
glorious  termination  of  the  campaign  in  which  you  have  borne  a 
distinguished  part,  affords  a  pleasing  proof.  From  the  prospect 
now  before  us,  we  may  be  permitted  to  hope,  sir,  that  the  calm  of 
peace  will  soon  authorize  you  to  rest  from  the  toils  of  war,  and  to 
lead  back  your  patriotic  division  to  their  families  and  friends. 
The  best  wishes  of  the  Louisianians  will  always  accompany  you 
and  them.  The  spirit  of  union,  of  mutual  affection  and  confidence, 
which  now  happily  exists  between  the  people  of  this  state  and  their 
brothers  of  the  sister  states,  will,  I  trust,  be  forever  cherished — it 
is  the  surest  pledge  of  our  national  glory. 

I  tender  to  you,  sir, 

The  assurances  of  my  respectful  attachment, 

(Signed)  WM.  C.  C.  CLAIBORNE. 

ANSWER. 

Camji  Dupre,  two  miles  below  New  Orleans,  Feb.  27 'th,  1815. 
SIR, 

THROUGH  the  politeness  of  colonel  Fortierl  had  the  honour 
of  receiving  yours  of  the  25th  inst.  enclosing  the  resolution  of  the 
general  assembly  of  the  state  of  Louisiana,  which  I  have  had  pub 
lished  to  the  troops  under  my  command.  Next  to  the  pleasure 
derived  from  a  consciousness  of  having  discharged  our  duty,  must 
be  that  which  arises  from  the  testimonials  of  gratitude  conferred 
upon  us  by  our  brothers  in  arms,  who  alike  with  us,  shared  the 
dangers  of  the  field,  and  the  toils  and  hardships  of  the  camp;  and 
for  the  protection  of  whom  we  have  left  our  homes  and  wives,  our 
children,  our  friends,  and  every  thing  dear  to  us,  and  for  whom  we 
cherish  that  brotherly  love  and  affection  which  is  the  cement  of 
the  union,  and  which  alone  endears  man  to  man  and  state  to  state 
For  myself  and  my  division,  permit  me  to  tender  you  and  the  ho 
nourable  legislature  of  the  state  of  Louisiana,  an  assurance  of  the 
grateful  sensations  we  feel  for  the  honour  they  have  conferred 
upon  us;  and  for  myself  accept,  dear  sir,  the  highest  sentiments  of 
esteem  from 

Yours  very  respectfully, 

JOHN  THOMAS, 
Qom.  Dm.  Ky.  Militia 


APPENDIX. 

Letter  from  gov£rnor  Claiborne  to  major 'general  Carrol. 

New  Orleans,  February  26th)  1815. 
SIR, 

I  TAKE  great  pleasure  in  communicating  to  you  a  resolution 
of  the  general  assembly  of  this  state,  expressive  of  gratitude  and 
thanks  to  you  and  your  gallant  comrades,  "  for  the  brilliant  share 
they  have  had  in  the  defence  of  Louisiana,  and  the  happy  harmony 
they  have  maintained  with  the  inhabitants  and  militia  of  this  state." 

Under  a  leader,  young  in  years,  but  old  in  deeds  of  valour, 
our  brethren  of  Tennessee  hastened  to  our  relief;  they  arrived  in 
time  to  participate  in  all  the  conflicts  with  the  advancing  foe,  and 
greatly  to  contribute  to  his  final  overthrow.  It  must  be  pleasing 
to  you,  to  contemplate  the  present  comparative  security  of  Loui 
siana.  It  cost  you  and  your  brave  associates  some  toilsome  days 
and  watchful  nights.  But  it  is  not  to  the  gratitude  of  this  state 
only,  that  you  have  acquired  a  title.  The  whole  union  must  feel 
indebted  to  those  whose  faithful  services  have  conduced  to  the 
preservation  of  one  of  its  important  members. 

I  tender  to  you,  sir,  Sec. 
(Signed)  WM.  C.  C.  CLAIBORNE. 

ANSWER. 

Camp.  Henderson,  above  New  Orleans,  March  2,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAD  the  honour  of  receiving  your  letter  of  the  24th  ult. 

covering  the  resolution  of  the  legislature  of  the  state  of  Louisiana, 
expressing  in  a  very  flattering  manner  their  thanks  to  the  troops 
of  Tennessee,  and  to  me  individually,  for  the  share  we  have  taken 
in  the  defence  of  this  country.  ' 

I  hope  you  will  convey  to  the  legislature  the  grateful  senti 
ments  with  which  I  am  impressed  for  the  honour  done  me  and 
the  troops  whom  I  command. 

I  cannot  withhold  the  expressions  of  gratitude  due  to  the 
people  of  New-Orleans  for.  their  benevolence  in  furnishing  our 
suffering  soldiers  with  warm  clothing  during  the  inclemency  of 
winter,  and  at  a  time  when  the  enemy  were  before  our  works. 

They  have  administered  to  our  sick  and  wounded  every 
friendly  attention,  and  extended  to  them  all  the  rights  of  humanity. 


ixxviii  APPENDIX. 

The  bright  beams  of  peace  appear  ready  to  burst  around 
us,  and  I  hope  soon  to  offer  to  you  and  the  people  of  this  country 
my  congratulations  for  this  glorious  event. 

If  the  report  of  peace  be  correct,  the  presence  of  the  Ten 
nessee  arms  will  be  no  longer  necessary,  and  our  soldiers  in  re 
turning  home,  will  carry  with  them  the  impressions  of  friendship 
to  the  citizens  of  this  country,  which  I  hope  may  be  cherished  as 
their  intercourse  becomes  more  frequent,  and  perpetuated  as  long 
as  the  Mississippi  continues  to  flow. 

I  offer  you  the  salutations  of  my  friendly  esteem, 

WM.  CARROLL, 
Maj.  Gen.  Com.  Div.  Tenn.  Militia. 

letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  general  Adair. 

New  Orleans,  February  25M,  1815. 
SIR, 

To  a  soldier  who  has  done  his  duty  in  all  the  conflicts  in 

which  his  country  has  been  involved,  from  the  war  of  independ 
ence  to  the  present  moment,  it  must  be  matter  of  great  exulta 
tion  to  notice  the  valour  and  firmness  of  the  children  of  his  old 
friends — to  be  convinced  that  they  are  the  true  descendants  of  the 
original  stock.  That  the  young  men  of  your  brigade  should  have 
looked  up  to  you  in  the  hour  of  battle,  as  their  guide  and  their 
shield,  is  only  a  continuation  of  that  confidence  which  their  fathers 
had  in  a  chief  whose  arm  had  so  often,  and  so  successfully,  been 
raised  against  the  foe.  The  enclosed  resolution  of  the  general 
assembly  of  Louisiana,  will  show  you  the  high  sense  which  is  en 
tertained  in  this  state  of  your  services,  and  those  of  your  brothers 
in  arms.  Be  towards  them  the  vehicle  of  our  sentiments,  and  re 
ceive  for  yourself,  the  assurances  of  my  respect,  and  best  wishes 
for  your  health  and  happiness. 

(Signed)  WM.  C.  C.  CLAIBORNE 

ANSWER. 

Camji  Dufire,  February  26£A,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  of  acknowledging  the  receipt  of  your  ex 
cellency's  note  of  yesterday  (politely  handed  by  colonel  Leblanc) 


APPENDIX.  Ixxix 

inclosing  a  resolution  of  the  legislature  of  the  state  of  Louisiana, 
generously  awarding  the  thanks  of  the  state  to  the  militia  from 
her  sister  states,  who  aided  in  the  late  successful  struggle  to  ex 
pel  a  powerful  invading  enemy  from  her  shores. 

To  a  proud  American,  citizen  or  soldier,  the  consciousness 
of  having  faithfully  discharged  his  duty  to  his  country,  must  ever 
be  his  highest  and  most  lasting  consolation.  But  when  to  this  is 
added  the  approbation,  the  gratitude  of  the  wisest,  the  most  re 
spectable  part  of  the  community,  with  whom  and  under  whose  eye 
it  has  been  his  fortune  to  act,  it  will  ever  be  esteemed,  not  only 
the  highest  reward  for  his  services,  but  the  most  powerful  incen 
tive  to  his  future  good  conduct. 

Accept,  sir,  for  the  legislature,  my  warmest  acknowledg 
ment  for  the  honourable  mention  they  have  made  of  the  corps  to 
which  I  belong;  and  for  yourself  the  esteem  and  respect  so  justly 
due  from  me  for  your  polite  and  highly  interesting  note  of  com 
munications,  and  my  best  wishes  for  your  health  and  happiness. 
(Signed)  JOHN  ADAIR. 

Letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  general  Coffee. 

New  Orleans,  February  25^,  1815. 
SIR, 

IT  affords  me  the  greatest  pleasure  to  enclose  you  a  resolu 
tion  of  the  general  assembly  of  Louisiana,  acknowledging  the 
faithful  and  useful  services  of  our  western  brothers,  and  tendering 
their  thanks  to  you  among  other  distinguished  officers. 

The  love  of  country,  which  induced  you  to  change  the  calm 
of  domestic  life  for  the  privations  incident  to  a  camp,  is  no  less  ar 
dent  hi  the  brave  volunteers  whom  you  lead,  than  the  gratitude 
which  the  people  of  Louisiana  bear  towards  you  and  them;  a  heroic 
band,  whose  firmness  in  the  field  has  alike  contributed  to  avert 
from  our  settlements  the  horrors  of  an  Indian  warfare,  and  to  the 
entire  defeat  and  discomfiture  of  the  powerful  foe,  who  so  arro  • 
gantly  menaced  the  safety  of  this  great  and  growing  city. 

Receive  for  yourself,  and  be  towards  your  companions  in 
arms,  the  organ  of  expressing  my  highest  confidence  and  sincerest 
good  will. 

(Signed)  WM.  C.  C.  CLAIBORMK-. 


Ixxx  APPENDIX. 

ANSWER. 

Cam/i  Coffee^  near  New  Orleans,  March  4th,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter 

of  the  25th  ult.  and  the  resolution  it  enclosed  of  the  legislature  of 
Louisiana,  presenting  the  thanks  of  that  honourable  body,  to  their 
brother  soldiers  from  the  west,  for  "  the  share  they  have  taken  in 
the  defence  of  this  country,  and  the  harmony  they  have  maintained 
with  the  inhabitants  and  militia  of  the  state." 

To  know  that  we  have  contributed,  in  any  degree,  to  the  pre 
servation  of  our  common  country,  is  to  myself  and  the  brave  men 
under  my  immediate  command  the  most  pleasing  reflection.  To 
have  received  so  flattering  and  distinguished  a  testimonial  of  our 
services  adds  to  the  pleasure  which  that  consciousness  alone 
would  have  afforded. 

While  we  indulge  the  pleasing  emotions  that  are  thus  pro 
duced,  we  should  be  guilty  of  great  injustice,  as  well  to  merit  as 
to  our  own  feelings,  if  we  withheld  from  the  commander-in-chief, 
to  whose  wisdom  and  exertions  we  are  so  much  indebted  for  our 
successes,  the  expression  of  our  highest  admiration  and  applause. 
To  his  firmness,  his  skill,  his  gallantry — to  that  confidence  and 
unanimity  among  all  ranks  produced  by  those  qualities,  we  must 
chiefly  ascribe  the  splendid  victories  in  which  we  esteem  it  a  hap 
piness  and  an  honour  to  have  borne  a  part. 

We  enter  with  sensibility  into  the  feelings  of  the  legislature, 
and  of  your  excellency,  on  occasion  of  the  harmony  which  has  been 
so  happily  preserved  with  the  inhabitants  and  militia  of  the  state- 
May  the  same  spirit  of  brotherhood  always  unite  us  when  con 
tending  against  a  common  enemy  in  defence  of  our  best  rights. 

I  tender  the  assurances  of  my  own  and  of  my  companions' 
thanks,  for  the  distinguished  manner  in  which  you  and  the  legis 
lature  have  been  pleased  to  notice  and  honour  our  exertions. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir,  &c. 
(Signed)  JOHN  COFFEE, 

Brig.  Gen.  T.  7.  M.  G.  Men, 


APPENDIX.  Ixxxi 

Letter  from  governor  Claiborne  to  colonel  Hinds. 

New  Orleans,  February  26/7/,  1815. 
SIR, 

THE  enclosed  vote  of  thanks  of  the  general  assembly  of  Lou 
isiana,  which  I  now  have  the  honour  to  transmit  you,  brings  to  my 
recollection  the  satisfaction  I  experienced  more  than  twelve  years 
ago,  on  signing  the  commission  which  ushered  your  military  ta 
lents  into  light.  At  that  early  period  of  your  life,  the  highest 
hopes  of  your  future  usefulness  were  entertained  by  your  friends, 
and  to  them  and  to  you  it  must  be  alike  pleasing  to  know  that 
these  hopes  have  been  fully  realized.  Your  gallant  conduct,  and 
that  of  the  corps  under  your  command  during  the  last  campaign, 
was  indeed  "  the  astonishment  of  one  army  and  the  admiration  of 
the  other."  It  will  be  gratefully  remembered  by  your  country, 
and  has  afforded  for  me  an  occasion  to  renew  to  you  the  assurances 
of  my  respect  and  esteem. 

(Signed)  WM.  C.  C.  CLAIBORNE, 

ANSWER. 

Cavalry  Camp,  above  New  Orleans,  February  28^//,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  have  had  the  honour  to  receive  your  communication 
covering  a  vote  of  thanks  from  the  general  assembly  of  the  state 
of  Louisiana.  The  very  handsome  terms  in  which  your  excel 
lency  and  the  general  assembly  have  thought  proper  to  speak  of 
the  humble  efforts  of  the  corps  which  it  has  been  my  good  fortune 
to  command,  cannot  be  otherwise  than  acceptable  to  their  feelings 
and  flattering  to  their  pride,  for  which  we  are  more  indebted  to 
your  excellency's  partiality  than  to  any  extraordinary  merit  of  our 
own,  and  which  we  are  well  aware  consists  principally  in  a  great 
share  of  zeal  for  our  country's  service,  kindled  into  action  by  the 
presence  of  a  base  and  brutal  invader.  That  the  same  unity  of 
sentiment  which  gave  force  to  our  arms  may  continue,  and  that 
the  people  of  Louisiana  may  long  enjoy  the  substantial  benefits 
resulting  from  the  late  most  glorious  conflict,  in  which  they  so 
honourably  shared,  is  confidently  to  be  expected  and  devoutly  t« 
be  wished. 

\ 


Ixxxii  APPENDIX. 

Accept,  sir,  for  yourself,  and  through  your  excellency  I  ten 
der  the  thanks  of  the  corps  I  have  the  honour  to  command,  for 
the  honourable  testimony  borne  of  its  services,  and  at  the  same 
time  assurances  of  my  individual  respect  and  esteem. 

(Signed)  THO:  HINDS, 

Lieut.  Col.  Com.  Vol.  Cavalry. 


NO.  XXXVIII. 

Letter  from  general  John  Lambert  to  major  general  Jackson. 

February  8M,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  am  just  favoured  with  your  letter  of  the  4th.  I  can  assure 
you  that  every  American  prisoner  that  was  present  when  I  em 
barked  on  board  the  Tonnant  has  been  sent  into  the  Rigolets,  and 
sir  A.  Cochrane  has  taken  steps  for  the  arrival  of  an  equivalent 
number  to  the  British  prisoners  now  with  you. 

Under  any  circumstances  I  positively  promise  that  your  libe 
rality  shall  not  be  in  any  way  but  reciprocal  on  my  part,  and  I  will 
not  lose  sight  for  a  moment  of  hastening,  if  it  is  possible,  the  arrival 
of  American  prisoners,  especially  those  who  were  taken  on  the 
14tb  December  last. 

I  am  obliged  to  you  for  the  allowing  of  two  British  officers 
to  return  on  parole,  and  what  you  intimate  on  the  subject  shall  be 
assented  to. 

What  I  said  respecting  the  slaves  regard  those  that  I  could 
not  prevent  coming  to  us  when  I  was  on  shore.  I  am  not  at  the 
anchorage  where  Mr.  Livingston  and  Mr.  White  have  been  re 
ceived;  and  indeed  I  have  nothing  to  say  to  it.  I  did  all  I  could 
to  persuade  them  to  return  at  the  time,  but  not  one  was  willing, 
as  will  be  testified  by  Mr.  Celestin,  a  proprietor  whom  I  had  de 
tained  until  the  British  forces  had  evacuated  their  last  position: 
this  gentleman  saw  the  slaves  that  were  present,  and  did  all  he 
c.ouid  to  urge  them  to  go  back. 

I  am,  sir,  your  very  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT. 


APPENDIX.  Ixxxiii 

Letter  from  admiral  Cochrane  to  general  Jackson. 

H.  JB.  M.  ship,  Tonnant,  off  Mobile  Bay,  IZth  February,  1815. 
SIR, 

IN  consequence  of  the  style  which  captain  Patterson  thought 
proper  to  adopt  in  a  letter  that  he  addressed  to  me  on  the  23d 
January  (a  copy  of  which  I  beg  leave  to  inclose)  with  some  remarks 
upon  the  margin,  I  find  myself  precluded  from  making  him  any 
reply  thereto,  or  of  holding  with  that  officer  any  further  corre 
spondence. 

But  to  prevent  our  respective  prisoners  suffering  any  unne 
cessary  detention,  I  do  myself  the  honour  to  communicate  to  you, 
that  in  order  to  fulfil  the  agreement  for  an  exchange  of  prisoners, 
entered  into  by  major  Smith  (aid-de-camp  to  major  general  Lam 
bert)  upon  the  27th  ultimo,  I  sent  his  majesty's  ship  Nymphe 
to  the  Havanna,  to  receive  from  his  majesty's  ship  Ramilies  one 
hundred  of  the  American  prisoners  taken  in  the  gun-vessels, 
which  she  had  carried  to  sea. 

These,  with  five  seamen,  who,  for  the  purpose  of  being  exa 
mined  in  the  vice-admiralty  court  respecting  the  capture  of  the 
gun-vessels,  I  have  been  obliged  to  send  to  Bermuda,  but  who  are 
to  be  returned  the  moment  the  legal  forms  have  been  complied 
with,  will  complete  the  number  of  American  prisoners  which  have 
to  be  accounted  for  by  the  British  forces  under  the  agreement  of 
the  17th  ultimo,  and  they  shall  be  forwarded  to  you  without  any 
delay  so  soon  as  they  arrive  in  the  squadron. 

As  it  has  been  found  very  inconvenient,  the  sending  of  ves 
sels  to  the  Rigolets  (those  last  sent  not  having  yet  returned,  and 
are  reported  to  be  on  shore)  colonel  Livingston  and  myself  have 
agreed  that  the  prisoners  expected  in  the  Nymphe  shall  proceed 
to  the  mouth  of  the  Mississippi,  and  be  delivered  to  the  officer- 
commanding  at  Plaquernines. 

Having  by  this  arrangement  fulfilled  the  stipulations  of  our 
before-mentioned  treaty,  in  which  we  agreed  to  the  restoration  of 
all  the  prisoners  that  our  forces  had  made  before  we  received  from 
you  any  British  prisoners,  it  is  but  just  that  you  should  follow  the 
same  principle  with  respect  to  the  prisoners  who  have  fallen  into 
our  hands  by  the  surrender  of  Fort  Bowyer,  all  of  whom  major 
general  Lambert  and  myself  are  ready  to  exchange  as  they  stand 


Ixxxiv  APPENDIX. 

upon  the  lists  (copies  of  which  are  inclosed)  for  such  British  pri 
soners  as  you  may  cause  to  be  delivered  at  the  mouth  of  the  Mis 
sissippi,  after  the  first  account  has  been  finally  settled.  And  on 
my  part,  I  will  engage  to  send  to  the  same  place  an  equivalent  of 
American  prisoners,  so  soon  as  I  am  informed  of  the  number  and 
qualities  of  the  British  prisoners  received. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir,  &c. 
(Signed)  ALEX.  COCHRANE. 

Letter  from  admiral  Cochrane  to  general  Jackson. 

H.  B.  M  ship.  Tonnant,  off  Mobile  Bay,  \3th  February ,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  exceeding  satisfaction  in  sending  to  you  a  copy  of  a 
bulletin  that  I  have  this  moment  received  from  Jamaica,  proclaiming 
that  a  treaty  of  peace  was  signed  between  our  respective  plenipo 
tentiaries  at  Ghent,  on  the  24th  December,  1814,  upon  which  I 
beg  leave  to  offer  you  my  sincere  congratulations. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir,  See. 
(Signed)  ALEX.  COCHRANE. 

Letter  from  general  John  Lambert  to  general  Jackson. 

Head- Quarters^  British  dr my,  February  19 th,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  AM  just  informed  by  admiral  Malcolm  that  the  American 
prisoners  made  on  the  14th  of  December  are  arrived  in  the  fleet, 
and  that  they  will  sail  immediately  for  the  Mississippi,  as  it  was 
settled  with  colonel  Livingston,  aid-de-camp. 

I  confidently  trust  there  will  be  now  no  impediment  to  an 
equal  number  of  British  prisoners  being  immediately  returned  to  us. 

I  beg  leave  to  congratulate  you  on  the  prospect  of  peace,  and 
hope  I  shall  soon  have  to  communicate  to  you  the  notice  of  the 
ratification  being  exchanged. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir,  &c. 
(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT. 


APPENDIX.  Ixxxv 

Letter  front  general  Jackson  to  admiral  Cochrane. 

Head-Quarters,  7th  Military  District ,  New  Orleans, 
SIR,  February  20M,  1815. 

I  AM  honoured  by  your  letter  of  the  12th  instant,  by  the  return 
of  my  flag,  inclosing  a  copy  of  commodore  Patterson's  to  you, 
with  some  marginal  strictures  on  its  contents.  The  navy  and  mi 
litary  departments  in  our  service  being  totally  independent,  1  am 
not  permitted  to  defend;  still  less  to  censure  the  conduct  or  cor 
respondence  of  that  officer  at  the  head  of  the  former;  his  distin* 
guished  merit,  and  general  correctness  of  conduct,  make  it  pre 
sumable  that  he  will  be  able  to  justify  his  proceedings  to  the  go 
vernment,  to  whom  alone  he  is  accountable. 

On  the  subject  of  the  exchange,  your  assurance  that  the  one 
hundred  men  sent  off  in  the  Ramilies,  as  well  as  the  five  detained 
for  the  condemnation  of  the  gun-boats,  will  be  delivered  on  their 
return,  is  satisfactory  to  myself  and  to  commodore  Patterson;  and 
I  now  despatch  all  the  prisoners  in  a  situation  to  be  removed  as 

by  the  enclosed  list:  the  residue,  to  the  amount  of 

now  at  Natchez,  are  sent  for,  and  will  be  forwarded  to  the  Balize 
as  soon  as  they  shall  arrive. 

You  will  perceive  by  this,  sir,  that  I  perfectly  acquiesce  in 
the  propriety  of  your  remark,  that  justice  requires  me  to  follow 
the  example  of  confidence  given  by  yourself  and  general  Lambert, 
in  the  delivery  of  the  prisoners  belonging  to  my  army  previous  to 
the  receipt  of  those  taken  from  you,  a  confidence  always  mutually 
due  from  enemies  who  respect  each  other,  and  peculiarly  proper 
between  those  who,  in  the  probable  course  of  events,  may  soon 
cease  to  be  such. 

There  is  another  subject,  on  which  a  passage  in  general  Lam 
bert's  last  letter  renders  it  necessary  for  me  to  address  you;  I 
mean  that  of  the  negroe  slaves  belonging  to  several  inhabitants 
on  the  Mississippi,  now  in  your  fleet.  *  I  had  written  to  general 
Lambert  on  this  head  two  successive  letters,  in  consequence  of 
his  informing  me  that  these  persons  would  be  delivered  to  their 
masters  on  their  application.  To  the  first  I  received  no  answer, 
to  the  last  I  am  informed  that  general  Lambert  "  has  nothing  to 
do  with  it"  Mr.  White,  to  whom  an  order  was  given  to  receive 
such  as  were  willing  to  return  to  their  masters)  having  reported 


Ixxxvi  APPENDIX. 

to  me  that  he  found  several  who  were  ready  to  accompany  him, 
but  that  he  was  not  permitted  to  take  them;  I  am  now  obliged,  sir, 
explicitly  to  ask  whether  the  property  thus  taken  is  intended  to  be 
restored,  and  if  it  be,  that  a  time  and  place  may  be  appointed  for 
its  delivery. 

The  prisoners  from  Natchez  will  arrive  in  less  than  ten  days; 
they  will  immediately  sail  for  the  Balize,  and  it  is  hoped  that  the 
prisoners  taken  at  fort  Bowyer  may  meet  them  there,  to  be  con 
veyed  back  in  the  same  vessels. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir,  &c. 
(Signed)  ANDREW  JACKSON. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  admiral  Cochrane. 

Head-Quarters^  7th  Military  District,  New  Orleans, 
SIR,  2\st  February,  1815. 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter 
of  the  13th  instant.  It  came  to  hand  only  this  day  by  the  way  of  the 
Balize,  though  purporting  to  have  been  sent  by  my  aid-de-camp, 
Mr.  Livingston,  who  arrived  two  days  since  from  your  fleet,  and 
who,  from  a  conversation  he  had  with  you,  was  disappointed  in  not 
finding  it  inclosed  in  the  despatch  he  brought. 

I  sincerely  reciprocate  your  congratulations  on  the  important 
event  you  announced  to  me,  that  a  treaty  of  peace  has  been  signed 
between  our  two  countries.  This  communication,  connected  with 
an  expression  in  the  bulletin  you  inclose,  that  captain  Stirling  of 
his  majesty's  ship  Brazen  was  charged  with  despatches  announ 
cing  the  termination  of  hostilities  between  Great  Britain  and  Ame 
rica,  naturally  leads  to  an  inquiry,  how  far  you  consider  this  event 
as  authorizing  and  requiring  a  cessation  of  hostilities  between  the 
military  and  naval  forces  of  Great  Britain  and  those  of  the  United 
States  in  this  district. 

The  prisoners  in  my  possession  at  this  place  will  sail  for  the 
Balize  at  eight  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  to-morrow.  Those  at 
Natchez,  upwards  of  a  hundred  in  number,  will  be  forwarded  to 
the  same  place  as  soon  as  they  arrive  here.  They  have  been  or 
dered  down,  and  are  expected  shortly. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 
(Signed)  \  ANDREW  JACKSON. 


APPENDIX.  Ixxxvii 

NO.  XXXIX. 

Letter  from  brigadier  general  Winchester  to  the  secretary  at  War. 

Mobile,  February  I7th>  1815. 
SIR, 

It  becomes  my  duty  to  communicate  to  you  the  unpleasant 
news  of  the  loss  of  Fort  Bowyer.  It  was  closely  invested  by  land, 
as  well  as  water,  on  the  8th  inst.  On  the  10th  and  1  ith,  passed 
a  detachment  over  the  bay  with  a  view  to  divert  the  enemy  from 
his  object:  but  it  arrived  about  twenty-four  hours  too  late,  though 
time  enough  to  capture  one  of  the  enemy's  barges  with  seventeen 
seamen,  who  say  the  garrison  capitulated  on  the  1 2th;  that  the  be 
siegers  had  advanced  their  works  on  the  land  side  to  within  certain 
musket  shot  of  the  fort;  that  the  loss  on  either  side  in  killed  is  in 
considerable.  I  am  in  possession  of  no  other  account  but  that 
which  comes  from  the  prisoners.  About  thirty  of  the  enemy's 
vessels,  besides  boats  and  barges,  are  lying  within  the  bar,  and 
above  Mobile  Point,  and  several  ships  of  the  line  on  the  south  and 
west  of  Dauphin  island.  The  wind  is  fair,  and  I  expect  the  ho 
nour  of  seeing  them  here  every  night;  if  I  do,  I  have  g^  at  confi 
dence  my  next  will  be  on  a  pleasanter  subject. 
I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &cc. 

J.  WINCHESTER, 
Brig.  Gen.  Com.  E.  Sec.  1th  Mil.JDis. 

P.  S.  The  garrison  consisted  of  about  three  hundred  and 
sixty  men,  including  officers.  Three  small  schooners,  in  which 
the  detachment  was  transported  over  the  bay,  were  captured  by 
the  enemy's  barges  after  the  troops  had  landed. 

Let ter  from  lieutenant  colonel  Lawrence  (Q  general  Jackson. 

Fort  Bowycr,  February  12^7;,  1815. 
SIR, 

Imperious  necessity  has  compelled  me  to  enter  into  articles 
of  capitulation  with  major  general  John  Lambert,  commanding 
his  Britannic  majesty's  forces  in  front  of  Fort  Bowyer,  a  copy  of 
which  I  forward  you  for  the  purpose  of  effecting  an  immediate 
exchange  of  prisoners.  Nothing  but  the  want  of  provisions,  and 
finding  myself  completely  surrounded  by  thousands — batteries 


Ixxxviii  APPENDIX. 

erected  on  the  sand-mounds  which  completely  commanded  the 
fort — and  the  enemy  having  advanced,  by  regular  approaches, 
within  thirty  yards  of  the  ditches,  and  the  utter  impossibility  of 
getting  any  assistance  or  supplies,  would  have  induced  me  to 
adopt  this  measure.  Feeling  confident,  and  it  being  the  unani 
mous  opinion  of  the  officers,  that  we  could  not  retain  the  post,  and 
that  the  lives  of  many  valuable  officers  and  soldiers  would  have 
been  uselessly  sacrificed,  I  thought  it  most  desirable  to  adopt  this 
plan.  A  full  and  correct  statement  will  be  furnished  you  as  early 
as  possible. 

Captain  Chamberlin,  who  bears  this  to  E.  Livingston,  Esq. 
will  relate  to  him  every  particular,  which  will,  J  hope,  be  satisfac 
tory. 

I  am,  with  respect,  Sec. 
(Signed)  W.  LAWRENCE, 

Lieut.  Col.Confg. 

ARTICLES  OF  CAPITULATION 

Agreed  upon  between  lieutenant  colonel  Lawrence  and  major  ge 
neral  Lambert  for  the  surrender  of  Fort  Bowi/cr,  on  the  Mo 
bile  Point,  llth  February,  1815. 

1.  That  the  fort  shall  be  surrendered  to  the  arms  of  his  Bri 
tannic  majesty  in  its  existing  state  as  to  the  works,  ordnance,  am 
munition,  and  every  species  of  military  stores.' 

2.  That  the  garrison  shall  be  considered  as  prisoners  of  war, 
the  troops  marching  out  with  their  colours  flying  and  drums  beat 
ing,  and  ground  their  arms  on  the  glacis — the  officers  retaining 
their  swords,  and  the  whole  to  be  embarked  in  such  ships  as  the 
British  naval  commander  in  chief  shall  appoint. 

3.  All  private  property  to  be  respected. 

4.  That  a  communication  shall  be  made  immediately  of  the 
same  to  the  commanding  officer  of  the  7th  military  district  of  the 
United  States,  and  every  endeavour  made  to  eifect  an  early  ex 
change  of  prisoners. 

5.  That  the  garrison  of  the  United  States  remain  in  the  fort 
until  twelve  o'clock  to-morrow,  a  British  guard  being  put  in  pos 
session  of  the  inner  gate  at  three  o'clock  to-day,  the  body  of  the 
guard  remaining  on  the  glacis,  and  that  the  British  flag  be  hoisted 


APPENDIX.  Ixxxik 

at  the  same  time — an  officer  of  each  service  remaining  at  the  head- 
Quarters  of  each  commander  until  the  fulfilment  of  these  articles. 
H.  C.  SMITH,  major  and  military  secretary, 
^Agreed  on  the  part  of  the  royal  navy, 

T.  H.  BICKETTS,  Capt.  H.M.  ship  Vengeant. 
R.  CHAMBERLAIN,  2d  Regt.  U.  S.  Infantry. 
WM.  LAWRENCE,  Lt.  Col.  %d  Inf'y.  Com'g. 
Approved, 

A.  COCHRANE,  Com. in  Chief  H.  M.  Shipping. 
JOHN  LAMBERT,  major  general  commanding. 
A  true  copy— Test, 

JOHN  REID,  Aid-de-Camp. 


NO.  XL. 

GENERAL  ORDERS. 

Headquarters^  Western  Section,  7th  Military 

Assistant  Adjutant -General's  Office ,  New  Orleans^ 
April  7th,  1815. 

AT  the  request  of  lieutenant-colonel  William  Lawrence,  of 
the  2d  regiment  United  States'  infantry,  a  court  of  inquiry  wa£ 
ordered  on  the  25th  ultimo  to  assemble  in  this  city,  to  inquire  into 
the  conduct  of  the . lieutenant-colonel  touching  the  defence  and 
surrender  of  fort  Bowyer,  and  to  give  an  opinion  thereon.  The 
court,  whereof  lieutenant  colonel  Arbuckle  was  president,  major 
Peyre  and  captain  Humphrey  members,  commenced  its  proceed 
ings  on  the  28th  March  last,  and  continued  by  adjournment  from 
day  to  day  up  to  the  5th  instant?  when  it  delivered  the  following 
opinion: 

"  The  court  of  inquiry,  after  mature  deliberation,  are  of  opi 
nion  that  fort  Bowyer  was  defended  in  the  best  manner  that  the 
circumstances  of  the  siege  admitted  of— that  the  conduct  of  colo 
nel  Lawrence  on  that  occasion  was  honourable  and  becoming  a 
good  officer — that  the  fort,  when  it  was  surrendered,  was  in  a  situ 
ation  which  rendered  a  longer  defence  impracticable,  and  that 
no  blame  ought  to  attach,  either  to  colonel  Lawrence  or  to  the 
garrison,  for  having  surrendered  fort  Bowyer  at  the  time  they  dW/* 

m 


xc  APPENDIX, 

The  major-general  feels  much  pleasure  in  observing,  that 
the  whole  of  the  testimony  in  this  case,  and  particularly  that  of 
major  Woodruff  of  the  3d  infantry,  lieutenant  Alexis  of  the  navy, 
and  major  Chamberlain  and  captain  Brownlow  of  the  2d  infantry, 
(the  two  former  as  to  the  position  and  strength  of  fort  Bowyer,  and 
the  two  latter  as  to  the  approaches  of  the.  enemy  and  the  defence  of 
the  fort]  fully  support  the  opinion  of  the  court  of  inquiry  in  favour 
of  lieutenant-colonel  Lawrence. 

The  court  of  inquiry,  whereof  lieutenant-colonel  Arbuckle  is 
president,  is  dissolved. 

E.  P.  GAINES,  major -general  commanding- 


NO.  XLI. 

Address  of  general  Jackson  to  the  Soldiers  and  Citizens  at 

JVeiv  Orleans. 
Head-Quarters,  7th  Military  District,  New  Orleans, 

19 f /i  February,  1815.' 
FELLOW-CITIZENS  AND  SOLDIERS, 

THE  flag-vessel  which  was  sent  to  the  enemy's  fleet  has  re 
turned,  and  brings  with  it  intelligence,  extracted  from,  a  London 
paper,  that  on  the  24th  of  December  articles  of  peace  were  signed 
at  Ghent,  by  the  American  commissioners  and  those  of  his  Bri- 
tarmic  majesty. 

We  must  not  be  thrown  into  false  security  by  hopes  that  may 
be  delusive.  It  is  by  holding  out  such  that  an  artful  and  insidious 
enemy  too  often  seeks  to  accomplish  what  the  utmost  exertions 
of  his  strength  will  not  enable  him  to  effect.  To  place  you  off 
your  guard  and  attack  you  by  surprise,  is  the  natural  expedient 
of  one  who,  having  experienced  the  superiority  of  your  arms,  still 
hopes  to  overcome  you  by  stratagem — Though  young  in  the 
"  trade"  of  war,  it  is  not  by  such  artifices  that  he  will  deceive  us. 

Peace,  whenever  it  shall  be  re-established  on  fair  and  honour 
able  terms,  is  an  event  in  which  both  nations  ought  to  rejoice;  but 
whether  the  articles  which  are  said  to  have  been  signed  for  its 
restoration  will  be  approved  by  those  whose  province  it  is  to  give 
to  them  their  final  confirmation,  is  yet  uncertain.  Until  they  shall 
be  ratified  by  the  prince  regent  and  the  president  of  the  United 


APPENDIX.  xci 

States,  peace,  though  so  much  desired,  may  be  still  distant. 
When  that  shall  be  done,  the  happy  intelligence  will,  be  publicly 
and  speedily  announced.  In  the  mean  time,  every  motive  that 
can  operate  on  men  who  love  their  country,  and  are  determined 
not  to  lose  it,  calls  upon  us  for  increased  vigilance  and  exertion. 

If  peace  be  near  at  hand,  the  days  of  our  watchfulness,  of  our 
toils,  and  our  privations,  will  be  proportionably  few;  if  it  be  distant, 
we  shall  at  any  rate  hasten  its  arrival,  by  being  constantly  and 
every  where  prepared  for  war. 

Whatever  be  the  designs  of  the  enemy,  we  must  be  ready  to 
meet  them.  Should  they  have  the  temerity  to  assail  us  again,  we 
will  once  more  drive  him  ignominiously  from  our  shore;  if  he 
places  his  hopes  of  success  on  stratagem,  our  watchfulness  will 
disappoint  him;  if  on  an  exertion  of  his  strength,  we  have  proved 
how  successfully  that  can  be  resisted. 

It  is  true  fort  Bowyer  has  fallen,  but  it  must  and  will  be 
speedily  regained.  We  will  expel  the  invader  from  every  spot 
on  our  soil,  and  teach  him,  if  he  hopes  for  conquest,  how  vain  it 

is  to  seek  it  in  a  land  of  freedom. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

NO.  XLII. 

Letter  from  general  Keane  to  general  Jackson* 
H.  B.  M.  shili  Tonnant,  off  Mobile,  February  8th,  1815. 
MAJOR-GENERAL  KEANE  presents  his  best  respects  to  gene 
ral  Jackson,  and  feels  particularly  thankful  for  the  kindness  he 
has  experienced  from  him  through  the  medium  of  colonel  Li 
vingston — He  is  still  further  obliged  for  general  Jackson's  kind 
wishes  for  his  recovery. 

NO.  XLI1I. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  at  war. 

Head-Quarters,  1th  Military  District,  New  Orleans, 
SIR,  17 'th  February,  1815. 

1  HAVE  the  honour  to  inclose  you  a  copy  of  major  Overton's 
report  of  the  attack  on  fort  St.  Philip,  and  of  the  manner  in  which 
it  was  defended. 


APPENDIX. 

The  conduct  of  this  officer,  and  of  those  who  acted  undei* 
him,  merits,  I  think,  great  praise.  They  nailed  their  own  colours 
to  the  standard,  and  placed  those  of  the  enemy  underneath  thern^ 
determined  never  to  surrender  the  post. 

The  flag-vessel  which  I  sent  to  the  enemy's  fleet  a  fortnight" 
ago,  for  the  purpose  of  ascertaining  the  causes  that  had  prevented 
the  delivery  of  a  hundred  of  our  seamen  (taken  on  board  the  gun 
boats)  in  violation  of  the  articles  entered  into  for  the  exchange  of 
prisoners,  has  not  yet  returned,  and  I  am  apprehensive  is  detained 
by  the  enemy  to  prevent  the  discovery  of  some  designs  he  may 
still  hope  to  execute.  Whatever  their  views  may  be,  I  am  per 
suaded  they  will  be  disappointed  in  them. 

A  copy  of  the  articles  agreed  upon  for  the  exchange  I  here 
with  send  you,  and  Lbeg  leave  to  accompany  it  with  the  assurance 
'of  my  determination,  to  restore  no  more  of  the  British  prisoners 
until  those  articles  are  complied  with  by  the  British  commanders. 

Major-general  Keane,  having  lost  his  sword  in  the  action  of 
the  8th  January,  and  having  expressed  a  great  desire  to  regain  it, 
valuing  it  as  the  present  of  an  esteemed  friend,  I  thought  proper  to 
have  it  restored  to  him;  thinking  it  more  honourable  to  the  Ame 
rican  character  to  return  it,  after  the  expression  of  those  wishes, 
than  to  retain  it  as  a  trophy  of  victory.  I  believe,  however,  it  is 
a  singular  instance  of  a  British  general  soliciting  the  restoration 
of  his  sword  fairly  lost  in  battle. 

Some  entire  Congreve-rockets  have  been  found,  and  a  rest 
from  which  they  are  fired,  which  it  is  my  intention  to  forward  to 
the  seat  of  government  whenever  a  proper  opportunity  shall  offer, 
as  also  the  instruments  of  the  British  baud  of  music,  and  their 
quarter  flag. 

General  Keanc's  trumpet,  as  well  as  that  which  was  used  on 
the  right  column  of  the  enemy,  were  taken  in  the  action  of  the  8th 
January.  Those  instruments  are  in  the  possession  of  general 
Coffee's  brigade,  where  I  hope  they  will  be  permitted  to  remain 

I  have  the  honour  $o  be,  &c. 
(Signed)  ANDREW  J_A.eKs0jr. 


APPENDIX.  xeiu 

KO.  XLIV. 

rom  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson. 

Head-Quarters^  Isle  Daufihinc^  February  57 th,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  this  moment  received  your  letter,  dated  the  20th  insf. 
I  have  taken  every  step  to  bring  the  exchange  to  a  speedy  conclu 
sion. 

On  the  subject  of  the  concluding  paragraph,  I  have  only  to 
remark,  that  honourable  and  feeling  conduct  which  has  character 
ized  every  transaction  in  which  I  have  had  the  honour  to  be  con 
cerned  in  with  you. 

You  may  rely  upon  it,  I  shall  take  no  retrospective  view  of 
the  conduct  of  any  of  the  men  returned,  and  shall  find  reasons  in 
discountenancing  an  inquiry,  should  it  be  brought  before  me,  or 
come  to  my  knowledge  through  any  other  channel. 

With  regard  to  the  negroes  that  have  left  their  master  and 
are  with  this  force,  any  proprietor  or  person  deputed,  that  chooses 
to  present  himself  to  me  will  be  received,  and  every  facility  af 
forded  him  to  communicate  with  those  people;  and  I  shall  be  very 
happy  if  they  can  be  persuaded  all  to  return,  but  to  compel  them, 
is  what  I  cannot  do. 

With  respect  (which  I  inclose)  to  an  address  from  major* 
general  Villere  to  the  commandant  of  this  force,  I  am  at  a  loss  to 
understand  the  purport.  The  commissary-general's  orders  are 
to  purchase  cattle  wherever  he  can  meet  with  them.  Amongst  re 
ceipts  in  that  neighbourhood  for  beasts. procured,  is  that  for  those 
belonging  to  the  major-general.  I  should  have  been  glad  to  have 
known  the  major-general's  sentiments  previous,  as  I  certainly 
should  not  have  troubled  myself  about  his  concerns,  or  endeavour^ 
ed  to  render  as  little  painful  as  I  was  able,  not  living  in  his  house, 
the  unavoidable  circumstances  attending  the  immediate  theatre  of 
war  towards  his  son  whom  he  had  left  unprotected. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 
(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT. 


xciv  APPENDIX. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert, 

Head-Quarters^  7th  Military  District ',  AVw  Orleans, 
SIR,  March  4t/i,  1815, 

I  AM  gratified  to  find  by  the  letter  with  which  you  have  ho 
noured  me,  that  my  confidence  in  your  humanity  and  delicacy  of 
conduct  with  respect  to  the  prisoners  was  not  misplaced.  My  re 
quest  was  merely  dictated  by  the  plainest  principles  of  justice. 
It  is  your  ready,  frank,  and  obliging  compliance,  that  merits  tbc 
flattering  epithet  you  have  been  pleased  to  bestow  on  my  conduct. 

I  am  extremely  sorry  that  the  very  high  winds,  which  have 
prevailed  ever  since  I  sent  for  the  British  prisoners  to  Natchez^ 
have  prevented  their  arrival  at  this  place.  Vessels  are  ready  to 
receive  and  carry  them  to  the  Balize  the  instant  they  shall  arrive. 

Having  been  just  informed  that  Mr.  Shields,  who  command 
ed  a  lanch  on  Lake  Borgne,  has  been  made  prisoner,  I  hope  he 
may  be  sent  in  on  parole  for  exchange. 

The  prisoners  taken  from  your  advanced  post  at  Mobile 
Point  are  directed  to  be  sent  down  to  fort  Bowyer,  to  be  delivered 
<Jo  you,  and  included  in  the  general  exchange. 

I  am  sorry  that  I  cannot  advise  you,  sir,  of  the  ratification  of 
the  treaty  signed  at  Ghent.  At  the  date  of  my  last  advices  it  had 
not  arrived  at  the  seat  of  government. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 
(Signed)  ANDREW  JACKSON. 

Letterfrom  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert. 

Head-Quarters,  Qth  March,  1815. 
SI.R, 

I  HAVE  just  received  intelligence  from  Washington  which 
leaves  little  doubt  in  my  mind  that  the  treaty  signed  at  Ghent  be 
tween  the  United  States  and  Great  Britain  has  been  ratified  by  the 
president  and  senate  of  the  United  States,  but  by  some  unaccount 
able  accident  a  despatch  on  another  subject  has  been  substituted 
for  the  one  intended  to  give  me  an  official  notice  of  this  event. 
The  one  I  have  received  however,  is  accompanied  by  an  order 
from  the  postmaster- general  directing  his  deputies  to  forward  the 
express  carrying  intelligence  of  the  recent  peace.  Of  this  order 
I  enclose  a.  copy.  And  from  other  sources,  to  which  I  give  credit. 


APPENDIX.  xcv 

I  learn  that  the  same  express  brought  official  notice  of  the  treaty 
to  the  governor  of  Tennessee.  I  have  deemed  it  a  duty,  without 
loss  of  time,  to  communicate  the  exact  state  of  those  circumstances,, 
that  you  might  determine  whether  they  would  not  justify  you  in 
agreeing,  by  a  cessation  of  all  hostilities,  to  anticipate  the  happy 
return  of  peace  between  our  two  nations,  which  the  first  direct 
intelligence  must  bring  to  us  in  an  official  form.  The  prisoners 
from  Natchez,  after  having  been  long  detained  by  adverse  winds, 
are  now  within  a  short  distance  of  the  city,  and  will  certainly 
proceed  to-morrow  morning  to  the  Balizc,  to  be  delivered  to  your 
officer  according  to  my  promise. 

I  pray  you,  with  the  assurance  of  high  respect,  to  receive  that 
of  the  satisfaction  I  feel  in  reflecting  that  our  correspondence,  be 
gun  as  commanders  of  hostile  armies,  should  terminate  as  officers 
of  nations  in  amity. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  $cc. 
(Signed)  ANDREW  JACKSON-. 

Letter  from  major  Woodruff  to  admiral  Cochrane. 

Daufihine  Island,  March  \7th,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  AM  instructed  by  his  excellency  major-general  Andrew 
Jackson,  commanding  the  United  States  7th  military  district,  to 
inform  you  of  his  having  received  notification  of  a  treaty  of  peace 
between  the  United  States  of  America  and  the  government  of 
Great  Britain  having  been  signed  and  exchanged  at  the  city  of 
Washington  on  the  17th  February,  1815.  By  the  first  article  of 
that  treaty,  "  all  territory,  places  and  possessions  whatsoever, 
taken  by  either  party  from  the  other  during  the  war,  or  which 
may  be  taken  after  the  signing  of  this  treaty,  excepting  only  the 
islands  herein  after  mentioned  shall  be  restored  without  delay,  and 
•without  carry  ing  any  distinction,  or  carrying  away  any  of  the  artil 
lery,  or  other  public  property,  originally  captured  in  the  said 
forts  or  places,  and  which  shall  remain  therein  upon  the  exchange 
©f  the  ratifications  of  this  treaty,  or  any  slaves  or  other  private  pro 
perty."  I  am  also  commanded  by  his  excellency,  major-general 
Andrew  Jackson,  to  receive  such  forts,  garrisons,  artillery,  muni 
tions  of  wa-r,  or  other  property,  as  may  be  embraced  by  said  firs' 


APPENDIX. 

article.  You  will  please  therefore  to  make  such  arrangements  as 
may  be  most  convenient  for  carrying  into  effect  the  said  first  arti 
cle  of  said  treaty. 

Such  slaves  as  may  be  within  your  control,  belonging  to 
any  inhabitant  or  citizen  of  the  United  States,  I  am  also  instructed 
to  receive,  to  the  end  that  their  owners  may  again  obtain  posses 
sion  of  them. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  8cc.  •» 


Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  major  Woodruff. 

Daufihine  Island,  March  \7th,  1815. 
SIR, 

IN  answer  to  yours  of  this  day's  date,  communicating  to  me 
that  his  excellency  major-general  Jackson  had  received  notifica 
tion  of  a  treaty  of  peace  between  the  United  States  of  America  and 
the  government  of  Great  Britain  having  been  signed  and  exchan 
ged  at  the  city  of  Washington  on  the  17th  February,  1815,  arid  re 
quiring  you  to  carry  into  execution,  on  the  part  of  the  American 
government,  the  fulfilment  of  the  first  article  of  the  treaty,  I 
ttave  to  request  that  you  will  inform  his  excellency  that  immedi 
ately  I  receive,  the  same  from  the  person  charged  by  the  British 
government  to  transmit  it  to  all  its  naval  and  military  command 
ers  serving  in  America,  I  shall  give  him  immediate  notice  of  it  and 
be  prepared  to  fulfil  the  treaty  in  every  respect. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 
(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT. 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson. 

Isle  DaujihinC)  Marc h  19///,  1815. 
SfR, 

SINCE  I  had  the  pleasure  of  writing  to  you  yesterday,  I  am 
informed  that  every  thing  will  be  embarked  (weather  permitting) 
by  the  25th.  I  have,  in  consequence,  written  to  major-general 
M'Intosh,  to  inform  him  that  the  commandant  of  fort  Bowyer 
has  orders  to  deliver  it  up  agreeable  to  the  first  article  of  the 
treaty  of  peace  on  that  day. 


APPENDTX.  xcvii 

The  time  of  and  preparations  for  a  long  voyage  may  detain 
the  troops  here  a  few  days  longer,  but  no  exertion  will  be  wanting 
to  embark  the  whole  as  soon  as  possible. 

As  I  may  not  have  another  opportunity  of  addressing  you, 
permit  me  to  avail  myself  of  the  present  to  wish  you  health  and 
happiness,  and  to  express  my  regret  that  circumstances  will  not 
allow  me  to  assure  you  personally  of  the  same. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  See. 
(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT^ 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  major  Woodruff. 

Isle  Daufihine,  March  20th,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  ANSWER  to  that  part  of  your  letter  which  touches  upon  the 

negroes  who  have  come  into  the  British  force  previous  to  the  ra 
tification  of  the  peace,  that  is,  on  the  18th  February  last,  I  do  not 
feel  myself  authorized  to  deliver  them  up  under  the  treaty,  with 
out  their  consent. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 
(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT, 

NO.  XLV. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  James  Monroe,  secretary  of  war, 
Head-Quarters,  7th  military  district, 

New  Orleans,  ^^th  February,  1815» 
SIR, 

THE  flag-vessel  which  I  sent  to  the  enemy's  fleet  returned  a 

few  days  ago,  with  assurances  from  admiral  Cochrane,  that  the 
American  prisoners  taken  in  the  gun-boats  and  sent  to  Jamai 
ca,  shall  be  returned  as  soon  as  practicable.  The  Nymphe  has 
been  despatched  for  them. 

Through  the  same  channel  I  received  the  sad  intelligence  of 
the  surrender  effort  Bowyer:  this  is  an  event  which  I  little  expect 
ed  to  happen,  but  after  the  most  gallant  resistance;  that  it  should 
have  taken  place,  without  even  a  fire  from  the  enemy's  batteries 
is  as  astonishing  as  it  is  mortifying. 

In  consequence  of  this  unfortunate  affair,  an  addition  of  three 
hundred  and  sixty-six  has  been  made  to  the  list  of  American 
prisoners;  to  redeem  these  and  the  seamen,  I  have,  in  conformity 

n 


xctiii  APPENDIX. 

with  propositions  held  out  by  admiral  Cochrane,  forwarded  to  the 
mouth  oi  the  Mississippi  upwards  of  four  hundred  British  prison 
ers;  others  will  be  sent,  to  complete  the  exchange,  as  soon  as  they 
arrive  from  Natchez,  to  which  place  I  had  found  it  expedient  to 
order  them. 

Major  Blue,  who  had  been  ordered  by  general  Winchester  to 
the  relief  of  fort  Bowyer,  succeeded  in  carrying  one  of  the  enemy's 
picquets,  consisting  of  seventeen,  but  was  too  late  to  effect  the 
whole  purpose  for  which  he  had  been  detached— the  fort  having; 
capitulated  twenty-four  hours  before  his  arrival.  I  learn  from  the 
bearer  of  my  last  despatches  to  the  enemy's  fleet,  who  was  detain 
ed  during  the  operations  against  fort  Bowyer,  that  his  loss  on  that 
occasion,  by  the  fire  from  the  garrison  was  between  twenty  and 
forty. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Scc2 

A.  J, 

NO.  XLVL 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  major -general  Lambert. 
Head-Quarters,  7th  military  district ', 

Ntw  Orleans,  16th  February,  1815. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter 

of  the  19th  inst. 

In  conformity  \vith  arrangements  entered  into  with  admiral 
Cochrane  by  my  aid-de-camp,  Mr.  Livingston,  I  despatched  from 
this  place  on  the  22nd  inst.  four  hundred  British  prisoners  to  be 
delivered  at  the  mouth  of  the  Mississippi,  to  the  officer  appointed 
on  the  part  of  his  B.  M.  to  receive  them.  Others  will  be  sent  to 
complete  the  exchange,  as  soon  as  they  arrive  from  Natchez. 

It  is  expected  that  the  American  prisoners  made  at  fort  Bow 
yer  will  be  forwarded  to  the  same  point,  as  soon  as  practicable,  and 
in  time  to  return  by  the  vessels  that  will  conyey  the  British  prison 
ers  now  on  their  way  from  Natchez. 

I  take  the  liberty  to  enclose  you  copies  of  two  letters,  which 
I  did  myself  the  honour  to  address  to  admiral  Cochrane  on  the 
20th  and  21st  inst.  in  doing  which  you  will  perceive  both  my  mo- 
tive  and  my  object.  I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

A.  J. 


APPENDIX.  xcix 

NO.  XLVII. 

Letter  from  generalJackson  to  major-general  Lambert. 

Head-Quarters,  1th  military  district,  March  7th,  1815. 
SIR, 

IN  consequence  of  the  intimation  contained  in  your  formal 
letters,  that  every  facility  will  be  given  to  the  proprietors  of  slaves 
now  with  your  forces,  to  induce  them  to  return,  I  have  given  per*- 
mission  to  M.  M.  Jumonville,  Lanergue,  Lacoste,  Forstaii,  Phi- 
lipan,  Ddphin,  Velez  and  Quarron  to  pass  under  a  flag  in  the 
schooner  Louisa,  captain  Pierre  Etienne,  to  the  fleet,  for  the  pur 
pose  of  seeing  and  reclaiming  their  slaves,  to  whcm  1  pray  that 
they  (the  slaves)  may  be  delivered. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 

A.  J. 

NO.  XLVIII. 

GENERAL  ORDERS. 

Head-Quarters,  7th  military  district,  adjutant-general's  office, 

New  Or  leans,  Sth  March,  1815. 

ALTHOUGH  the  commanding  general  has  not  received  offi 
cial  advice  that  the  state  of  war  has  ceased  by  tne  ratification  of 
the  treaty  of  peace  between  the  United  States  and  Great  Britain, 
he  has  persuasive  evidence  of  the  fact,  and  credits  it,  at  the  risk 
of  being  misguided  by  his  wishes.  Under  this  impression,  his 
first  act  is  to  release  from  actual  service  the  body  of  the  militia  of 
this  state,  who  have  taken  the  field  in  obedience  to  the  orders  for 
a  levy  en  masse.  In  discharging  them  from  the  noble  duty  which 
they  were  called  to  perform,  the  general  does  justice  to  the  alar 
erity  with  which  they  have  in  general  obeyed  the  call — to  the  en 
thusiasm,  which  animated  them  on  the  first  invasion  of  the  enemy, 
and  the  unanimity  and  patriotism  winch  disappointed  his  insolent 
hopes.  He  thanks  them,  in  the  name  of  their  common  country, 
for  the  noble  defence  they  have  made,  and  he  congratulates  them 
in  his  own,  on  the  consequences  it  has  produced.  Louisiana, 
though  not  called  on  for  any  exertion  in  assuming  her  independ 
ence,  has  shown,  by  hrr  courage  in  its  support,  that  she  knows 
how  to  prize  the  inestimable  blessing-;  her  sons  have  not  only 


c  APPENDIX 

ensured  safely,  but  have  acquired  even  a  greater  good — national 
reputation.  Preserve  this  as  the  best  reward  of  your  exertions, 
and  hand  it  down  untarnished,  together  with  your  example,  to 
your  posterity.  Let  no  designing  men  induce  you  to  destroy  it, 
by  exciting  jealousies  of  your  best  friends,  or  divisions  among 
yourselves — by  preaching  party  spirit  in  peace,  insubordination 
in  war,  injustice  to  your  brave  companions  in  arms,  blindness  to 
your  own  interests  and  to  the  true  character  of  those  enemies  of 
your  peace.  Guard  against  these  evils  as  you  hope  to  enjoy  the 
blessings  you  have  so  bravely  won;  and  before  you  yield  to  such 
perfidious  counsels,  examine  scrupulously  whether  those  from 
whom  they  proceed,  deserve  your  confidence,  by  any  exertiom 
they  have  made  in  your  defence.  A  zealous  wish  for  the  pros 
perity  of  the  interesting  country,  in  whose  defence  he  has  been, 
by  the  blessing  of  heaven,  instrumental,  has  induced  the  command 
ing  general  to  give  this  admonitory  caution,  which  those  who 
court  popularity,  may  tell  you  is  unnecessary.  He,  however,  va 
lues  no  popularity  but  that  which  arises  from  a  faithful  discharge 
of  duty.  In  performing  it,  his  object  has  been  to  secure  your  hap 
piness;  and  he  will  always  consider  it  as  one  of  the  most  fortunate 
incidents  in  his  life,  to  have  contributed,  by  his  exertions,  to  the 
prosperity  of  your  country. 

By  command,  ROBERT  BUTLER, 


NO.  XL1X. 

JLetterfrom  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert. 
Head-Quarters,  7th  Military  District, 

New  Orleans,  March  13th,  1815. 
SIR, 

IT  is  with  great  satisfaction  that  I  inform  you  of  my  having 

received  this  day  official  advice  of  the  ratification  and  interchange 
of  the  treaty  of  peace  between  the  United  States  and  Great  Bri 
tain. 

A  copy  of  the  treaty  and  of  the  ratification  will  be  presented 
to  you  by  major  Woodruff,  of  the  3d  infantry,  who  will  express 
you  more  fully  than  I  can  in  the  compass  of  a  letter,  those  senti 
ments  whicji  the  new  state  of  things  between  the  two  nations 
inspire. 


APPENDIX.  ci 

I  have,  by  special  direction  of  the  secretary  of  war,  ordered 
an  immediate  cessation  of  hostilities,  and  by  the  like  order  make 
this  communication  to  you. 

Mr.  Livingston  is  empowered  to  make  such  arrangements 
for  the  restoration  required  by  the  first  article  of  the  treaty,  and  to 
receive  all  places,  now  in  your  possession,  as  well  as  the  slaves 
mentioned  in  your  former  letters,  and  all  public  property,  confor 
mably  to  the  provisions  of  the  said  treaty. 

Any  facility  or  accommodation  that  may  be  required  for  your 
supplies,  or  the  comforts  of  your  sick  or  wounded  in  my  power, 
will  be  given  with  the  greatest  pleasure. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  major  Woodruff. 

M'tv  Orleans,  March  \3fh,  1815, 

Major  Woodruff  will  inform  captain  Newman  at  Petites  Co- 
quilles  of  the  restoration  of  peace,  and  direct  him  to  permit  the 
British  flag,  now  waiting  at  that  place,  to  come  up  to  the  city.  He 
will  also  instruct  captain  Newman  that  all  vessels  are,  in  future, 
to  be  permitted  to  pass  and  repass  freely. 

He  will  then  proceed  to  the  British  fleet  and  deliver  the  des 
patches  with  which  he  is  charged  to  the  commander-in-chief. 
He  will  receive  the  surrender  of  the  posts  and  public  property 
agreeable  to  the  treaty,  and  require  the  delivery  of  slaves  taken 
from  hence. 

General  M'Intosh  will  furnish  the  troops  necessary  for  the 
occupation  of  the  lort  on  his  requisition. 

A.  JACKSON. 

NO.  L. 

GENERAL  ORDERS. 

Head-Quarters,  7th  Military  District,  Adjutant-general's  Office^ 

Neiv  Orleans,  March  13,  1815. 

THE  commanding  general,  with  the  most  lively  emotions  of 
joy,  and  of  gratitude  to  Heaven,  announces  to  the  troops  under  his 
command,  that  a  treaty  of  peace  between  the  United  States  and 
Great  Britain  was  ratified  and  exchanged  at  Washington,  on  the 
1 7th  ef  February  last. 


cii  APPENDIX. 

In  consequence  whereof,  he  loses  not  an  instant  in  revoking 
and  annulling  the  general  order  issued  on  the  15th  clay  of  Decem- 
bar  last,  proclaiming  martial  law,  which  is  hereby  revoked,  an 
nulled,  and  countermanded;  and  he  orders  all  hostilities  imme 
diately  to  cease  against  the  troops  and  subjects  of  the  united 
kingdom  of  Great  Britain  and  Ireland. 

And  in  order  that  the  general  joy  attending  this  event  may 
extend  to  all  manner  of  persons,  the  commanding  general  pro 
claims  and  orders  a  pardon  tor  all  military  offences  heretofore 
committed  in  this  district,  and  orders  that  all  persons  in  confine 
ment,  under  such  charges,  be  immediately  discharged. 

By  order,  ROBERT  BUTLER,  Adjutant-General. 

Head-Quarters,  7th  Military  District,  Ad  jut  ant -General's  Office, 

.Ww  Orleans,  March  13,  1815. 

THE  commanding  general  communicates  \vith  great  satis 
faction  to  the  troops  under  his  command,  the  following  testimo 
nial  of  the  just  sense  which  the  president  of  the  United  States 
entertains  of  their  patriotism,  valour,  and  good  conduct.  He 
congratulates  them  particularly  on  their  being  able  to  receive  his 
applause  with  a  consciousness  of  having  deserved  it;  and  takes  a 
singular  pleasure  in  conveying  to  the  brave  citizens  of  this  state, 
who  took  up  arms  in  its  defence,  the  assurance  that  their  exertions 
arc  appreciated  as  they  deserve  by  the  executive  of  the  United 
States. 

"  The  president  requests  that  you  will  express  to  the  troops, 
who  have  acted  under  you,  the  very  favourable  sentiments  which  he 
entertains  of  their  conduct.  The  alacrity  with  which  they  repair 
ed  to  the  standard  of  their  country,  exposed,  in  many  instances,  to 
distressing  privations;  the  patience  with  which  they  have  borne  the 
fatigues  of  the  campaign,  and  their  bravery  in  action,  have  been 
seen  by  him  with  great  satisfaction.  To  our  newly  adopted  fel 
low  citizens  of  Louisiana,  you  will  give  assurance  of  his  great 
sensibility  to  the  decided  and  honourable  proof  which  they  have 
given  of  their  attachment  and  devotion  to  the  union,  and  of  the 
manly  support  of  the  rights  of  their  country. 

(Signed)  «  JAMES  MONROE,  Secretary  of  State.'* 

By  command,  ROBEHT  BUTLER,  Adj.  Gen. 


APPENDIX.  ciii 

NO.  LI. 

GENERAL  ORDERS. 

Head-Quarters,  7th  Military  District,  Adjutant-general's  Office, 

New  Orleans,  March  14M,  1815. 

THE  major-general  is  at  length  enabled  to  perform  the  pleas 
ing  task  of  restoring  to  Tennessee,  Kentucky,  Louisiana  and  the 
territory  of  the  Mississippi,  the  brave  troops  who  have  acted  such 
a  distinguished  part  in  the  war  which  has  just  terminated.  In  re 
storing  these  brave  men  to  their  homes,  much  exertion  is  expect 
ed  of,  and  great  responsibility  held  on  the  commanding  officers  of 
the  different  corps.  It  is  required  of  major  generals  Carroll  and 
Thomas,  and  brigadier-general  Coffee,  to  march  their  commands 
without  unnecessary  delay  to  their  respective  states,  and  have 
them  mustered  for  payment  and  discharged.  The  troops  from  the 
Mississippi  territory  and  state  of  Louisiana,  both  militia  and  volun 
teers,  will  be  immediately  mustered  out  of  service  by  major  Da 
vis,  assistant-inspector-general,  paid  and  discharged.  Every  ar 
rangement  will  be  made  through  the  department  of  war,  to  have 
the  troops  of  Tennessee  and  Kentucky  paid  off  the  soonest  possi 
ble  after  their  return.  All  public  arms,  accoutrements,  camp 
equipage,  and  military  stores  of  every  description,  now  in  the 
possession  of  the  different  troops  herein  directed  to  be  discharged, 
will  be  immediately  deposited  with  the  deputy-commissary  of  ord 
nance  and  quarter-master-general,  except  such  camp  equipage  as 
is  absolutely  necessary  for  the  troops  on  their  return  march,  which 
must  be  delivered  to  some  public  agent  on  their  dismissal.  The 
quarter-master-general  is  hereby  ordered  to  furnish  transportatio» 
for  ail  invalids  belonging  to  the  different  corps.  Those  who  can 
not  be  moved  without  imminent  danger  of  their  lives,  must  be 
well  accommodated,  and  supplied  with  hospital  stores,  and  a  suf 
ficient  number  of  surgeons  retained  to  attend  them.  The  con 
tractor  will  furnish  provisions  for  the  troops  herein  named,  on  their 
return  march,  on  the  requisition  of  the  respective  commanding 
officers;  who,  it  is  expected,  will  use  every  care  and  attention  that 
no  depredations  are  committed  on  private  property;  and  are  held 
personally  responsible  to  remunerate,  agreeably  to  the  regulations 
of  the  war  department,  all  damages  on  property  injured  or  destroy 
ed  by  their  commands. 


giv  APPENDIX. 

The  major-general  has  again  the  satisfaction  of  announcing 
the  approbation  of  the  president  of  the  United  States  to  the  con 
duct  of  the  troops  under  his  command,  expressed  in  flattering 
terms  through  the  honourable  the  secretary  at  war. 

In  parting  with  those  brave  men,  whose  destinies  have  been 
so  long  united  with  his  own,  and  in  whose  labours  and  glories  it  is 
his  happiness  and  his  boast  to  have  participated,  the  commanding 
general  can  neither  suppress  his  feelings  nor  give  utterance  to 
them  as  he  ought.  In  what  terms  can  he  bestow  suitable  praise 
on  merit  so  extraordinary,  so  unparallelled!  Let  him  in  one  burst 
of  joy,  gratitude  and  exultation  exclaim — "  these  are  the  saviours 
of  their  country — these  the  patriot  soldiers  who  triumphed  over 
the  invincibles  of  Wellington,  and  conquered  the  conquerors  of 
Europe!"  With  what  patience  did  you  submit  to  privations — 
with  what  fortitude  did  you  endure  fatigue — what  valour  did  you 
display  in  the  day  of  battle!  You  have  secured  to  America  a  proud 
name  among  the  nations  of  the  earth — a  glory  which  will  never 
perish. 

Possessing  those  dispositions,  which  equally  adorn  the  citizen 
and  the  soldier,  the  expectations  of  your  country  will  be  met  in 
peace  as  her  wishes  have  been  gratified  in  war  Go  then,  my* 
brave  companions,  to  your  homes;  to  those  tender  connexions  and 
those  blissful  scenes  which  render  life  so  dear — full  of  honour,  and 
crowned  with  laurels  which  will  never  fade.  With  what  happi 
ness  will  you  not,  when  participating  in  the  bosoms  of  your  families 
the  enjoyment  of  peaceful  life,  look  back  to  the  toils  you  have 
borne — to  the  dangers  you  have  encountered?  How  will  all  your 
past  exposures  be  converted  into  sources  of  inexpressible  delight? 
Who,  that  never  experienced  your  sufferings,  will  be  able  to  ap 
preciate  your  joys?  The  man  who  slumbered  ingloriousiy  at 
home, during  your  painful. marches,  your  nights  of  watchfulness 
and  your  days  of  toil,  will  envy  you  the  happiness  which  these  re 
collections  will  afford — still  more  will  he  envy  the  gratitude  of 
that  country  which  you  have  so  eminently  contributed  to  save. 

Continue,  fellow  soldiers,  on  your  passage  to  your  several 
destinations,  to  preserve  that  subordination,  that  dignified  and 
manly  deportment  which  have  so  ennobled  your  character. 


APPENDIX.  cv 

While  the  commanding- general  is  thus  giving  indulgence  to 
his  feeling  towards  those  brave  companions  who  accompanied  him, 
thicitf-rh  difficulties  and  clanger,  he  cannot  permit  the  names  of 
Blciiiit,  and  Shelby,  and  Holmes,  to  pass  unnoticed.  With  what 
a  £em:rous  ardour  of  patriotism  have  these  distinguished  govern 
ors  contributed  all  their  exertions  to  provide  the  means  of  victory! 
The  memory  of  these  exertions,  and  of  the  success  with  which 
they  were  attained,  will  be  to  them  a  reward  more  grateful  than 
any  which  the  pomp  of  title  or  the  splendour  of  wealth  can  bestow. 

What  a  happiness  it  is  to  the  commanding-general  that,  while 
danger  was  before  us,  he  was,  on  no  occasion,  compelled  to  use, 
towards  his  companions  in  arms,  either  severity  or  rebuke.  If, 
after  the  enemy  had  retired,  improper  pasbions  bevgan  to  show 
their  empire  in  a  few  unworthy  bosoms,  and  rendered  a  resort  to 
energetic  measures  necessary  fir  their  suppression,  the  com 
manding-general  has  not  confounded  the  innocent  with  the  guilty, 
— the  seduced  with  the  seducers.  Towards  you,  felk  w-soldiers, 
the  most  cheering  recollections  exist,  blended,  alas!  with  regret, 
that  disease  and  war  should  have  ravished  from  us  so  many  wor 
thy  companions.  But  the  memory  of  the  cause  in  which  they 
perished,  and  of  the  virtues  which  animated  them  while  living, 
must  occupy  the  place  where  sorrow  would  claim  to  dwell. 

Farewell,  fellow-soldiers.  The  expression  of  your  general's 
thanks  is  feeble;  but  the  gratitude  of  a  country  of  freemen  is 
yours — yours  the  applause  of  an  admiring  world. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 


NO.  LIJ. 
TREATY  OF  PEACE. 

JAMES  MADISON,  PRESIDENT  OF   THE  UNITED   STATES, 

To  all  and  singular  to  whom  these  presents  shall  come,  greeting: 

WHEREAS  a  treaty  of  peace  and  amity  between  the  United 
States  of  America  and  his  Britannic  majesty  was  signed  at  Ghent, 
on  the  twenty-fourth  day  of  December,  one  thousand  eight  hun 
dred  and  fourteen,  by  plenipotentiaries  respectively  appointed  for 
that  purpose;  and  the  said  treaty  having  been,  by  and  with  the  ad- 
rice  and  consent  of  the  senate  of  the  United  States,  duly  accepted, 

o 


cvi  APPENDIX. 

ratified  and  confirmed,  on  the  seventeenth  day  of  February,  one 
thousand  eight  hundred  and  fifteen;  and  ratified  copies  thereof 
having  been  exchanged  agreeably  to  the  tenor  of  the  said  treaty, 
which  is  in  the  words  following,  to  wit: 

TREATY    OF    PEACE    AND    AMITY    BETWEEN    HIS  BRITANNIC   MA 
JESTY    AND  THE  UNITED  STATES  OF  AMERICA. 

His  Britannic  majesty  and  the  United  States  of  America,  de 
sirous  of  terminating  the  war  which  has  unhappily  subsisted  be 
tween  the  two  countries,  and  of  restoring,  upon  principles  of  per 
fect  reciprocity,  peace,  friendship,  and  good  understanding  be 
tween  them,  have,  for  that  purpose,  appointed  their  respective 
plenipotentiaries,  that  is  to  say:  his  Britannic  majesty,  on  his  part, 
has  appointed  the  right  honourable  James  lord  Gambier,  late  ad 
miral  of  the  white,  now  admiral  of  the  red  squadron  of  his  majes 
ty's  fleet,  Henry  Goulbourn,  esq.  member  of  the  imperial  parlia 
ment,  and  under  secretary  of  state,  and  William  Adams,  esq.  doc 
tor  of  civil  laws: — and  the  president  of  the  United  States,  by  and 
with  the  advice  and  consent  of  the  senate  thereof,  has  appointed 
John  Quincy  Adams,  James  A.  Bayard,  Henry  Clay,  Jonathan 
Russcl,  and  Albert  Gallatin,  citizens  of  the  United  States,  who,  af 
ter  a  reciprocal  communication  of  their  respective  full  powers,, 
have  agreed  upon  the  following  articles: 

ART.  i.— »There  shall  be  a  firm  and  universal  peace  between 
his  Britannic  majesty  and  the  United  States,  and  between  their 
respective  countries,  territories,  cities,  towns  and  people,  of  every 
degree,  without  exception  of  places  or  persons.  All  hostilities, 
both  by  sea  and  land,  shall  cease  as  soon  as  this  treaty  has  been 
ratified  by  both  parties,  as  hereinafter  mentioned.  All  territories, 
places,  and  possessions  whatsoever,  taken  from  either  party  by  the 
other,  during  the  war,  or  which  may  be  taken  after  the  signing  of 
this  treaty,  excepting  only  the  islands  hereinafter  mentioned,  shall 
be  restored  without  delay,  and  without  causing  any  destruction,  or 
carrying  away  any  of  the  artillery  or  other  public  property  origi 
nally  captured  in  the  said  forts  or  places,  and  which  shall  remaia 
therein,  upon  the  exchange  of  the  ratifications  of  this  treaty,  or  any 
slaves  or  other  private  property,  and  all  archives,  records,  deeds, 
and  papers,  either  of  a  public  nature,  or  belonging  to  private  per 
sons,  which,  in  the  course  of  the  war,  may  have  fallen  into  the 


APPENDIX.  cvii 

hands  of  the  officers  of  either  party,  shall  be,  as  far  as  may  be  prac 
ticable,  forthwith  restored  and  delivered  to  the  proper  authorities 
and  persons  to  whom  they  respectively  belong.  Such  of  the  islands 
in  the  bay  of  Passamaquoddy  as  are  claimed  by  both  parties,  shall 
remain  in  the  possession  of  the  party  in  whose  occupation  they 
may  be  at  the  time  of  the  exchange  of  the  ratifications  of  this  trea 
ty,  until  the  decision  respecting  the  title  to  the  said  islands  shall 
have  been  made,  in  conformity  with  the  fourth  article  of  this 
treaty.  No  disposition  made  by  this  treaty,  as  to  such  possession 
of  the  islands  and  territories  claimed  by  both  parties,  shall,  in  any 
manner  whatever,  be  construed  to  affect  the  right  of  either. 

ART.  ii.— Immediately  after  the  ratification  of  this  treaty  by 
both  parties,  as  hereinafter  mentioned,  orders  shall  be  sent  to  the 
armies,  squadrons,  officers,  subjects  and  citizens  of  the  two  pow 
ers  to  cease  from  all  hostilities:  and  to  prevent  all  causes  of  com 
plaint  which  might  arise  on  account  of  the  prizes  which  may  be 
taken  at  sea  after  the  ratifications  of  this  treaty,  it  is  reciprocally 
agreed,  that  all  vessels  and  effects  which  may  be  taken  after  the 
space  of  twelve  days  from  the  said  ratifications,  upon  all  parts  of 
the  coast  of  North  America,  from  the  latitude  of  twenty -three  de 
grees  north,  to  the  latitude  of  fifty  degrees  north,  as  far  eastward 
in  the  Atlantic  ocean,  as  the  thirty-sixth  degree  of  west  longitude 
from  the  meridian  of  Greenwich,  shall  be  restored  on  each  side: 
That  the  time  shall  be  thirty  days  in  all  other  parts  of  the  Atlan 
tic  ocean,  north  of  the  equinoxial  line  or  equator,  and  the  same 
time  for  the  British  and  Irish  channels,  for  the  gulf  of  Mexico,  and 
all  parts  of  the  West  Indies:  forty  days  for  the  North  Seas,  for  the 
Baltic,  and  for  all  parts  of  the  Mediterranean.  Sixty  days  for  the 
Atlantic  ocean  south  of  the  equator  as  far  as  the  latitude  of  the 
Cape  of  Good  Hope:  ninety  days  for  every  part  of  the  world  south 
of  the  equator:  and  one  hundred  and  twenty  days  for  all  other  parts 
of  the  world,  without  exception. 

ART.  in. — All  prisoners  of  war  taken  on  either  side,  as  well 
by  land  as  by  sea,  shall  be  restored  as  soon  as  practicable  after  the 
ratification  of  this  treaty,  as  hereinafter  mentioned,  on  their  paying 
the  debts  which  they  may  have  contracted  during  their  captivity. 
The  two  contracting  parties  respectively  engage  to  discharge,  in 
specie,  the  advances  which  may  have  been  made  by  the  other,  for 
the  sustenance  and  maintenance  of  such  prisoners. 


cviii  APPENDIX. 

ART.  iv. — Whereas  it  was  stipulated  by  the  second  article  in 
the  treaty  of  peace  of  one  thousand  seven  hundred  and  eighty- 
three,  between  his  Britannic  majesty  and  the  United  States  of 
America,  that  the  boundary  of  the  United  States  should  compre 
hend  all  islands  within  twenty  leagues  of  any  part  of  the  shores  of 
the  United  States,  and  lying  between  lines  to  be  drawn  clue  east 
from  the  points  where  the  aforesaid  boundaries  between  Nova- 
Scotia,  on  the  one  part,  and  East  Florida  on  the  other,  shall  re 
spectively  touch  the  Bay  of  Fundy,  and  the  Atlantic  ocean,  ex 
cepting  such  islands  as  now  are,  or  heretofore  have  been  within 
the  limits  of  Nova-Scotia:  and  whereas  the  several  islands  in  the 
Bay  of  Passamaquoddy,  which  is  part  of  the  Bay  of  Fundy,  and  the 
island  of  Grand  Menan,  in  me  said  Bay  of  Fundy,  are  claimed  by 
the  United  States  as  being  comprehended  within  their  aforesaid 
boundaries,  which  said  islands  are  claimed  as  belonging  to  his 
Britannic  majesty,  as  having  been  at  the  time  of,  and  previous  to, 
the  aforesaid  treaty  of  one  thousand  seven  hundred  and  eighty- 
three,  within  the  limits  of  the  province  of  Nova  Scotia:  in  order, 
therefore,  finally  to  decide  upon  these  claims,  it  is  agreed  that  they 
shall  be  referred  to  two  commissioners,  to  be  appointed  in  the  fol 
low  ing  manner,  viz.  One  commissioner  shall  be  appointed  by  his 
Britannic  majesty,  and  one  by  the  president  of  the  United  States, 
by  and  with  the  advice  and  consent  of  the  senate  thereof,  and  the 
said  two  commissioners  so  appointed  shall  be  sworn  impartially  to 
examine  and  decide  upon  the  said  claims  according  to  such  evi 
dence  as  shall  be  laid  before  them  on  the  part  of  his  Britannic  ma 
jesty  and  of  the  United  States  respectively.  The  said  commis 
sioners  shall  meet  at  St.  Andrews,  in  the  province  of  New  Bruns 
wick,  and  shall  have  power  to  adjourn  to  such  other  place  or  pla 
ces  as  they  shall  think  fit.  The  said  commissioners  shall,  by  a  de 
claration  or  report  under  their  hands  and  seals,  decide  to  which 
of  the  two  contracting  parties  the  several  islands  aforesaid  do  re 
spectively  belong,  in  conformity  with  the  true  intent  of  the  said 
treaty  of  peace  of  one  thousand  seven  hundred  and  eighty-three. 
And  if  the  said  commissioners  shall  agree  in  their  decision,  both 
parties  shall  consider  such  decision  as  final  and  conclusive.  It  is 
further  agreed,  that  in  the  event  of  the  two  commissioners  differ 
ing  upon  all  or  any  of  the  matters  so  referred  to  them,  or  in  the 
event  of  both  of  either  of  the  said  commissioners  refusing  or  de4- 


APPENDIX.  cix 

dining,  or  wilfully  omitting,  to  act  as  such,  they  shall  make  jointly 
or  separately,  a  report  or  reports,  as  well  to  the  government  of 
his  Britannic  majesty,  as  to  that  of  the  United  States,  stating  in 
detail  the  points  on  which  they  differ,  and  the  grounds  upon  which 
their  respective  opinions  have  been  formed,  or  the  grounds  upon 
which  they,  or  either  of  them,  have  so  refused,  declined,  or  omit 
ted  to  act.  And  his  Britannic  majesty,  and  the  government  of  the 
United  States,  hereby  agree  to  refer  the  report  or  reports  of  the 
said  commissioners,  to  some  friendly  sovereign  or  state,  to  be  then 
named  for  that  purpose,  and  who  shall  be  requeste^d  to  decide  on 
the  differences  which  may  be  stated  in  the  said  report  or  reports, 
or  upon  the  report  of  one  commissioner*  together  with  the  grounds 
upon  which  the  other  commissioner  shall  have  refused,  declined, 
or  omitted  to  act,  as  the  case  may  be.  And  if  the  commissioner 
so  refusing,  declining,  or  omitting  to  act,  shall  also  wilfully  omit 
to  state  the  grounds  upon  which  he  has  so  done,  in  such  manner 
that  the  said  statement  may  be  referred  to  such  friendly  sovereign 
or  state,  together  with  the  report  of  such  other  commissioner,  then 
such  sovereign  or  state,  shall  decide  exparte  upon  the  said  report 
alone.  And  his  Britannic  majesty  and  the  government  of  the  Uni 
ted  States  engage  to  consider  the  decision  of  some  friendly  sove 
reign  or  state  to  be  final  and  conclusive,  on  all  the  matters  so  re 
ferred. 

ART.  v. — Whereas  neither  that  point  of  the  high  lands  lying 
due  north  from  the  source  of  the  river  St.  Croix,  and  designated 
in  the  former  treaty  of  peace  between  the  two  powers  as  the  north 
west  angle  of  Nova  Scotia,  now  the  northwesternmost  head  of 
Connecticut  river,  has  yet  been  ascertained;  and  whereas  that  part 
of  the  boundary  line  between  the  dominion  of  the  two  powers 
which  extends  from  the  source  of  the  river  St.  Croix  directly 
north  to  the  above  mentioned  northwest  angle  of  Nova  Scotia, 
thence  along  the  said  high  lands  which  divide  those  rivers  that 
empty  themselves  into  the  river  St.  Lawrence  from  those  which 
fall  into  the  Atlantic  ocean,  to  the  northwesternmost  head  of  Con 
necticut  river,  thence. down  along  the  middle  of  that  river  to  the 
forty-fifth  degree  of  north  latitude:  thence  by  a  line  due  west  on 
said  latitude  until  it  strikes  the  river  Iroquois  or  Cataraguy,  has 
not  yet  been  surveyed:  it  is  agreed,  that  for  these  several  purpo- 


gx  APPENDIX. 

ses,  two  commissioners  shall  be  appointed,  sworn,  and  authorized? 
to  act  exactly  in  the  manner  directed  with  respect  to  those  men 
tioned  in  the  next  preceding  article,  unless  otherwise  specified  in 
the  present  article.     The  said  commissioners  shall  meet  at  St 
Andrews,  in  the  province  of  New  Brunswick,  and  shall  have  pow 
er  to  adjourn  to  such  other  place  or  places  as  they  shall  think  fit. 
The  said  commissioners  shall  have  power  to  ascertain  and  deter 
mine  the  points  above  mentioned,  in  conformity  with  the  provi 
sions  of  the  said  treaty  of  peace  of  one  thousand  seven  hundred 
and  eighty-three,  and  shall  cause  the  boundary  aforesaid,  from  the 
source  of  the  river  St.  Croix,  to  the  river  Iroqitois  or  Cataraguy, 
to  be  surveyed  and  marked  according  to  the  said  provisions.  The 
said  commissioners  shall  make  a  map  of  the  said  boundary,  and 
annex  it  to  a  declaration  under  their  hands  and  seals,  certifying  it 
to  be  the  true  map  of  the  said  boundary,  and  particularizing  the 
latitude  and  longitude  of  the  northwest  angle  of  Nova  Scotia,  of 
the  north  westernmost  head  of  Connecticut  river,  and  of  such  other 
points  of  the  said  boundary  as  they  may  deem  proper.     And  both 
parties  agree  to  consider  such  map  and  declaration  as  finally  and 
conclusively  fixing  the  said  boundary.     And  in  the  event  of  the 
said  two  commissioners  differing,  or  both,  or  either  of  them,  re 
fusing  or  declining,  or  wilfully  omitting  to  act,  such  reports,  de 
clarations,  or  statements,  shall  be  made  by  them,  or  either  of  them, 
and  such  reference  to  a  friendly  sovereign  or  state,  shall  be  made, 
in  all  respects  as  in  the  latter  part  of  the  fourth  article  is  contained, 
and  in  as  full  a  manner  as  if  the  same  was  herein  repeated. 

ART  vi. — Whereas  by  the  former  treaty  of  peace,  that  por 
tion  of  the  boundary  of  the  United  States  from  the  point  where 
the  forty-fifth  degree  of  north  latitude  strikes  the  river  Iroquois  or 
Cataraguy  to  the  lake  Superior,  was  declared  to  be  "  along  the 
middle  of  said  river  into  lake  Ontario,  through  the  middle  of  said 
lake  until  it  strikes  the  communication  by  water  between  that  lake 
and  lake  Erie,  thence  along  the  middle  of  said  communication  in 
to  lake  Erie,  through  the  middle  of  said  lake  until  it  arrives  at  .the 
water  communication  into  the  lake  Huron,  thence  through  the 
middle  of  said  lake  to  the  water  communication  between  that  lake 
and  lake  Superior."  And  whereas  doubts  have  arisen  what  was 
the  middle  of  said  river,  lakes,  and  water  communications,  and 


APPENDIX.  cxi 

whether  certain  islands  lying  in  the  same  were  within  the  domi 
nions  of  his  Britannic  majesty  or  of  the  United  States:  in  order, 
therefore,  finally  to  decide  these  doubts,  they  shall  be  referred  to  two 
commissioners,  to  be  appointed,  sworn,  and  authorized  to  act  ex 
actly  in  the  manner  directed  with  respect  to  those  mentioned  in 
the  next  preceding  article,  unless  otherwise  specified  in  this  pre 
sent  article.  The  said  commissioners  shall  meet,  in  the  first  in 
stance  at  Albany,  in  the  state  of  New  York,  and  shall  have  power 
to  adjourn  to  such  other  place  or  places  as  they  shall  think  fit. 
The  said  commissioners  shall,  by  a  report  or  declaration,  under 
their  hands  and  seals,  designate  the  boundary  through  the  said 
river,  lakes,  or  water  communications,  and  decide  to  which  of  the 
two  contracting  parties  the  several  islands  lying  within  the  said 
river,  lakes,  and  water  communications,  do  respectively  belong, 
in  conformity  with  the  true  intent  of  the  said  treaty  of  one  thou 
sand  seven  hundred  and  eighty-three.  And  both  parties  agree  to 
consider  such  designation  and  decision  as  final  and  conclusive. 
And  in  the  event  of  the  said  two  commissioners  differing,  or  both, 
or  either  of  them,  refusing,  declining,  or  wilfully  omitting  to  act, 
such  reports,  declarations,  or  statements,  shall  be  made  by  them, 
or  either  of  them;  and  such  reference  to  a  friendly  sovereign  or 
state  shall  be  made  in  all  respects  as  in  the  latter  part  of  the  fourth 
article  is  contained,  and  in  as  full  a  manner  as  if  the  same  was 
herein  repeated. 

ART.  vii. — Tt  is  further  agreed  that  the  said  two  last  men 
tioned  commissioners,  after  they  shall  have  executed  the  duties 
assigned  to  them  in  the  preceding  article,  shall  be,  and  they  are 
hereby  authorized,  upon  their  oaths,  impartially  to  fix  and  de 
termine,  according  to  the  true  intent  of  the  said  treaty  of  peace  of 
one  thousand  seven  hundred  and  eighty-three,  that  part  of  the 
boundary  between  the  dominions  of  the  two  powers,  which  ex 
tends  from  the  water  coummunication  between  lajke  Huron  and 
lake  Superior,  to  the  most  northwestern  point  of  the  lake  of  the 
Woods,  to  decide  to  which  of  the  two  parties  the  several  islands 
lying  in  the  lakes,  water  communications  and  rivers,  forming  the 
said  boundary,  do  respectively  belong,  in  conformity  with  the  true 
intent  of  the  said  treaty  of  peace  of  one  thousand  seven  hundred 
and  eighty  -three;  and  to  cause  such  parts  of  the  said  boundary,  as 


cxii  .          APPENDIX. 

require  it,  to  be  surveyed  and  marked.  The  said  commissioners' 
shall,  by  a  report  or  declaration  under  their  hands  and  seals,  de 
signate  the  boundary  line  aforesaid,  state  their  decisions  on  the 
points  thus  referred  to  them,  and  particularize  the  latitude  and 
longitude  of  the  most  northwestern  point  of  the  lake  of  the  Woods, 
and  of  such  other  parts  of  the  said  boundary,  as  they  may  deem, 
proper.  And  both  parties  agree  to  consider  such  designation  and 
decision  as  final  and  conclusive.  And  in  the  event  of  the  said  two 
commissioners  differing,  or  both,  or  either  of  them,  refusing,  de 
clining,  or  wilfully  omitting  to  act,  such  reports,  declarations,  or 
statements,  shall  be  made  by  them,  or  either  of  them,  and  such 
reference  to  a  friendly  sovereign  or  state,  shall  be  made  in  all  re 
spects,  as  in  the  latter  part  of  the  fourth  article  is  contained,  ami 
in  as  full  a  manner  as  if  the  same  was  herein  repeated. 

ART.  vin. — The  several  boards  of  two  commissioners  men 
tioned  in  the  four  preceding  articles,  shall  respectively  have  pow 
er  to  appoint  a  secretary,  and  to  employ  such  surveyors  or  other 
persons  as  they  shall  judge  necessary.  Duplicates  of  all  their  re 
spective  reports,  declarations,  statements,  and  decisions,  and  of 
their  accounts  and  of  the  journal  of  their  proceedings,  shall  be  de 
livered  by  them  to  the  agents  of  his  Britannic  majesty,  and  to  the 
agents  of  the  United  States,  who  may  be  respectively  appointed 
and  authorized  to  manage  the  business  on  behalf  of  their  respec 
tive  governments.  The  said  commissioners  shall- be  respectively 
paid  in  such  manner  as  shall  be  agreed  between  the  two  con 
tracting  parties,  such  agreement  being  to  be  settled  at  the  time  of 
the  exchange  of  the  ratifications  of  this  treaty;  and  all  other  ex 
penses  attending  said  commissioners  shall  be  defrayed  equally  by 
the  two  parties.  And  in  case  of  death,  sickness,  resignation,  or 
necessary  absence,  the  place  of  every  such  commissioner  respec 
tively  shall  be  supplied  in  the  same  manner  as  such  commissioner 
was  first  appointed,  and  the  new  commissioner  shall  take  the  same 
oath  or  affirmation,  and  do  the  same  duties.  It  is  further  agreed 
between  the  two  contracting  parties,  that  in  case  any  of  the  islands 
mentioned  in  any  of  the  preceding  articles,  which  were  in  the  pos 
session  of  one  of  the  parties  prior  to  the  commencement  of  the 
present  war  between  the  countries,  should,  by  the  decision  of  any 
of  the  boards  of  commissioners  aforesaid,  or  of  the  sovereign  or 


APPENDIX.  cxiii 

slate  so  referred  to,  as  in  the  four  next  preceding  articles  con 
tained,  fall  within  the  dominions  of  the  other  party,  all  grants  of 
land  made  previous  to  the  commencement  of  the  war,  by  the  party 
having  had  such  possession,  shall  be  as  valid  as  if  such  island  or 
islands,  had  by  such  decision  or  decisions,  been  adjudged  to  be 
within  the  dominions  of  the  party  having  such  possession. 

ART.  ix. — The  United  States  of  America  engage  to  put  an 
end,  immediately  after  the  ratification  of  the  present  treaty,  to  hos 
tilities  with  all  the  tribes  or  nations  of  Indians,  with  whom  they 
may  be  at  war  at  the  time  of  such  ratification;  and  forthwith  to 
restore  to  such  tribes  or  nations,  respectively,  all  the  possessions, 
rights,  and  privileges,  which  they  may  have  enjoyed  or  been  entitled 
to  in  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  eleven,  previous  to  such 
hostilities:  Provided  a  favays)  that  such  tribes  or  nations  shall  agree 
to  desist  from  all  hostilities  against  the  United  States  of  America-, 
their  citizens  and  subjects,  upon  the  ratification  of  the  present 
treaty  being  notified  to  such  tribes  or  nations,  and  shall  so  desist 
accordingly.  And  his  Britannic  majesty  engages,  on  his  part,  to 
put  an  end  immediately  after  the  ratification  of  the  present  treaty, 
to  hostilities  with  all  the  tribes  or  nations  of  Indians  with  whom 
he  may  be  at  war  at  the  time  of  such  ratification,  and  forthwith  to 
restore  to  such  tribes  or  nations  respectively,  all  the  possessions, 
rights,  and  privileges,  which  they  may  have  enjoyed,  or  been  en 
titled  to  in  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  eleven,  previous  to 
such  hostilities:  Provided  always^  that  such  tribes  or  nations  shall 
agree  to  desist  from  all  hostilities  against  his  Britannic  majesty, 
and  his  subjects,  upon  the  ratification  of  the  present  treaty  being 
notified  to  such  tribes  or  nations,  and  shall  so  desist  accordingly. 

ART.  x. — Whereas  the  traffic  in  slaves  is  irreconcilable  with 
the  principles  of  humanity  and  justice,  and  whereas  both  his  Bri 
tannic  majesty  and  the  United  States  are  desirous  of  continuing 
£heir  efforts  to  promote  its  entire  abolition,  it  is  hereby  agreed  that 
both  the  contracting  parties  shall  use  their  best  endeavours  to  ac 
complish  so  desirable  an  object. 

ART.  xi. — This  treaty,  when  the  same  shall  have  been  rati 
fied  on  both  sides,  without  alteration  by  either  of  the  contracting 
parties  and  the  ratifications  mutually  exchanged,  shall  be  binding- 
on  both  parties,  and  the  ratifications  shall  be  exchanged  at  Wash- 

P 


cxiv  APPENDIX. 

ington,  in  the  space  of  four  months  from  this  day,  or  sooner  if 
practicable. 

In  faith  whereof,  we  the  respective  plenipotentiaries,  have  sign 
ed  this  treaty,  and  have  thereunto  affixed  our  seals. 

Done,  in  triplicate,  at  Ghent,  the  twenty-fourth  day  of  Decem 
ber,  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  fourteen, 

(L.  s.)  GAMBIER, 

(L.  s.)  HENRY  GOULBOURN, 

(L.  s.)  WILLIAM  ADAMS, 

(L.  s.)  JOHN  QUINCY  ADAMS, 

(L.  s.)  J.  A.  BAYARD, 

(L.  s.)  H.  CLAY, 

(L.  s.)  JONATHAN  RUSSELL, 

(L.  s.)  ALBERT  GALLATIN. 

Now,  therefore,  to  the  end  that  the  said  treaty  of  peace  and 
amity  may  be  observed  with  good  faith,  on  the  part  of  the  United 
States,  I,  JAMES  MADISON,  president  as  aforesaid,  have  caused  the 
premises  to  be  made  public:  and  I  do  hereby  enjoin  all  persons 
bearing  office,  civil  or  military,  within  the  United  States,  and  all 
others,  citizens  or  inhabitants  thereof,  or  being  within  the  same, 
faithfully  to  observe  and  fulfil  the  said  treaty  and  every  clause  and 
article  thereof. 

In  testimony  whereof  I  have  caused  the  seal  of  the  United  States 
to  be  affixed  to  these  presents,  and  signed  the  same  with  my  hand. 
Done  at  the  city  of  Washington,  this  eighteenth  day  of  Februa 
ry,  in  the  year  of  our  Lord  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and 
fifteen,  and  of  the  sovereignty  and  independence  of  the 

United  States  the  thirty-ninth. 

JAMES  MADISON, 
Hy  the  President,  JAMES  MONROE. 

NO.  LI1L 

ADDRESS 

Jfrom  the  city  battalion  of  uniform  comj[ia?iies  to  major-general 
Jackson. 

GENERAL,  New-Orleans,  \&th  March,  1815. 

WE  have  delayed  until  this  moment  the  expression  of  out 

feelings  towards  you,  lest  the  honest  emotions  of  our  hearts  should 

be  ascribed  to  a  desire  of  propitiating  the  favour  of  our  command- 


APPENDIX.  cxv 

er.  At  this  moment,  when  neither  hope  nor  fear  can  be  supposed 
to  have  influenced  us,  we  pray  you  to  receive  the  sincere  tribute 
of  our  thanks — as  soldiers,  for  the  confidence  you  have  reposed  in 
Us;  for  the  paternal  care  with  which  you  have  watched  over  our 
comforts,  and  above  all,  for  that  justice  you  have  done  to  our  zeal 
in  assigning  us  on  every  occasion  a  post  of  danger  and  of  honour—- 
as  citizens,  for  the  wisdom  of  the  measures  you  devised  to  protect 
our  country;  for  the  skill  and  bravery  with  which  they  were  exe 
cuted;  and  for  that  indispensable  energy  to  which  we  owe  our 
safety.  Leaving  to  others  the  task  of  declaiming  about  privileges 
and  constitutional  rights,  we  are  content  with  having  fought  in 
support  of  them — we  have  understanding  enough  to  know  when 
they  are  wantonly  violated:  and  no  false  reasoning  shall  make  us 
ungrateful  to  the  man  whose  wisdom  and  valour  have  secured 
them  to  us  and  to  our  posterity!  We  do  not  deal  in  professions; 
we  pray  you,  general,  to  be  assured,  that  in  the  officers  and  men  of 
this  battalion  you  have  soldiers  who  have  been  and  are  always 
ready  to  affront  every  danger  under  your  command— -fellow -citi 
zens^  grateful  for  your  services—; -friends^  personally  attached  to 
your  fortunes,  and  ready  to  promote  your  happiness  at  the  risk  of 
their  own.  You  have  allowed  us  the  endearing  title  of  your 
brothers  in  arms — it  was  given  to  us  on  this  field,  strewed  then 
with  the  bodies  of  our  enemies;  and  we  feel  a  noble  pride  in  the 
consciousness  that  allows  us  to  accept  it.  That  fraternity,  cemented 
in  hostile  blood,  shall  be  the  pride  of  our  lives;  and  in  aftertimes 
will  secure  to  our  children  the  respect  of  posterity.  General, 
common  phrases  cannot  express  the  emotions  which  agitate  us  at 
the  moment  of  our  separation— but  we  pray  heaven  to  watch  over 
your  safety;  and  we  trust  to  a  grateful  country  for  the  honours 
and  advancement  which  your  services  have  merited. 

J.  B.  PLAUCHE,  major.  N.  THOMPSON?  lieutenant. 

STE.  GEME,  cafitain.  C.  FREMONT,  lieutenant. 

M.  WHITE,  captain.  DUHULRUOD,  lieutenant, 

A.  GUIBERT,  captain,  L.  PILIE,  lieutenant. 

HUDRY,  captain.  BENETAUD* 

P.  ROCHE,  captain.  BERTEL,  lieutenant. 

JOHN  ST.  JEAN,  lieutenant,     HUET,  lieutenant. 

COEUR  DE  ROY.  LE  MOUNIER,  serjeant -major 

DE  ST.  ROMES,  lieutftnanf 


APPENDIX, 


FELLOW -SOLDIERS, 

ALTHOUGH  born  and  bred  in  a  land  of  freedom,  popular  fa 
vour  lias  always  been  with  me  a  secondary  object.  My  first  \vish5 
in  political  life,  has  been  to  be  useful  to  my  country.  Yet,  I  am 
not  insensible  to  the  good  opinion  of  my  fellow-citizens;  I  would 
do  much  to  obtain  it;  but  I  cannot,  for  this  purpose,  sacrifice  my 
own  conscience  or  what  I  conceive  to  be  the  interests  of  my 
country. 

These  principles  have  prepared  me  to  receive,  with  just  sa 
tisfaction,  the  address  you  have  presented.  The  first  wish  of  my 
heart,  the  safety  of  your  country,  has  been  accomplished;  and  it 
affords  me  the  greatest  happiness  to  know  that  the  means  taken 
to  secure  this  object  have  met  the  approbation  of  those  who  have 
had  the  best  opportunities  of  judging  of  their  propriety,  and  who, 
from  their  various  relations,  might  be  supposed  the  most  ready  to 
censure  any  which  had  been  improperly  resorted  to.  The  dis 
tinction  you  draw,  gentlemen,  between  those  who  only  declaim 
about  civil  rights  and  those  who  fight  to  maintain  them,  shows 
how  just  and  practical  a  knowledge  you  have  of  the  true  princi 
ples  of  liberty — without  such  knowledge  all  theory  is  useless  or 
mischievous. 

Whenever  the  invaluable  rights  which  we  enjoy  under  our 
happy  constitution  are  threatened  by  invasion,  privileges  the  most 
dear,  and  which,  in  ordinary  times»  ought  to  be  regarded  as  the  most 
sacred,  may  be  required  to  be  infringed  for  their  security.  At 
such  a  crisis,  we  have  only  to  determine  whether  we  will  suspend, 
for  a  time,  the  exercise  of  the  latter,  that  we  may  secure  the  per 
manent  enjoyment  of  the  former.  Is  it  wise,  in  such  a  moment, 
to  sacrifice  the  spirit  of  the  laws  to  the  letter,  and  by  adhering  too 
strictly  to  the  letter,  lose  the  substance  forever,  in  order  that  we 
may,  for  an  instant,  preserve  the  shadow?  It  is  not  to  be  imagined 
that  the  express  provisions  of  any  written  law  can  fully  embrace 
emergencies  which  suppose  and  occasion  the  suspension  of  all 
law,  but  the  highest  and  the  last,  that  of  self-preservation.  No 
right  is  more  precious  to  a  freeman  than  that  of  suffrage;  but  had 
your  election  taken  place  on  the  8th  of  January,  would  your  de- 
claimers  have  advised  you  to  abandon  the  defence  of  your  country 


APPENDIX.  cxvii 

in  order  to  exercise  this  inestimable  privilege  at  the  polls?  Is  it 
to  be  supposed  that  your  general,  if  he  regarded  the  important 
trust  committed  to  his  charge,  would  have  permitted  you  to  pre 
serve  the  constitution  by  an  act  which  would  have  involved  con 
stitution,  country  and  honour  in  one  undistinguished  ruin? 

What  is  more  justly  important  than  personal  liberty;  yet  how 
can  the  civil  enjoyment  of  this  privilege  be  made  to  consist  with 
the  order,  subordination  and  discipline  of  a  camp?  Let  the  senti 
nel  be  removed  by  subfioena  from  his  post,  let  writs  of  habeas 
corpus  carry  away  the  officers  from  the  lines,  and  the  enemy  may 
conquer  your  country  by  only  employing  lawyers  to  defend  your 
constitution. 

Private  property  is  held  sacred  in  all  good  governments,  and 
particularly  in  our  own,  yet,  shall  the  fear  of  invading  it  prevent  a 
general  from  marching  his  army  over  a  corn-field,  or  burning  a 
house  which  protects  the  enemy? 

These  and  a  thousand  other  instances  might  be  cited  to  show 
that  laws  must  sometimes  be  silent  when  necessity  speaks.  The 
only  question  with  the  friend  of  his  country  will  be,  have  these 
laws  been  made  to  be  silent  wantonly  and  unnecessarily?  If  neces 
sity  dictated  the  measure,  if  a  resort  to  it  was  important  for  the 
preservation  of  those  rights  which  we  esteem  so  dear,  and  in  de 
fence  of  which  we  had  so  willingly  taken  up  arms,  surely  it  would 
not  have  been  becoming  in  the  commander-in-chief  to  have  shrunk 
from  the  responsibility  which  it  involved.  He  did  not  shrink  from 
it.  In  declaring  martial  law,  his  object,  and  his  only  object,  was 
to  embody  the  whole  resources  of  the  country,  for  its  defence. 
That  law,  while  it  existed,  necessarily  suspended  all  rights  and 
privileges  inconsistent  with  its  provisions.  It  is  matter  of  sur 
prise  that  they  who  boast  themselves  the  champions  of  those 
rights  and  privileges  should  not,  when  they  were  first  put  in  dan 
ger  by  the  proclamation  of  martial  law,  have  manifested  that  lively 
sensibility  of  which  they  have  since  made  so  ostentatious  a  dis 
play.  So  far,  however,  was  this  from  being  the  case,  that  this 
measure  not  only  met,  then,  the  open  support  of  those  who  when 
their  country  was  invaded  thought  resistance  a  virtue,  and  the  si 
lent  approbation  of  all;  but  even  received  the  particular  recom 
mendation  and  encouragement  of  many  who  now  inveigh  the  most 
bitterly  against  it.  It  was  not  until  a  victory,  Secured  by  that  very 


cxviii  APPENDIX. 

measure,  had  lessened  the  danger  which  occasioned  a  resort  to  it} 
that  the  present  feeling  guardians  of  our  rights  discovered  that  the 
commanding-general  ought  to  have  suffered  his  posts  to  be  aban 
doned  through  the  interference  of  a  foreign  agent — his  ranks  to  be 
thinned  by  desertion,  and  his  whole  army  to  be  broken  to  pieces 
by  mutiny;  while  yet  a  powerful  force  of  the  enemy  remained  on 
your  coast,  and  within  a  few  hours  sail  of  your  city. 

I  thought  and  acted  differently.  It  was  not  until  I  discovered 
that  the  civil  power  stood  no  longer  in  need  of  the  military  for  its 
support,  that  I  restored  to  it  its  usual  functions;  and  the  restora 
tion  was  not  delayed  a  moment  after  that  period  had  arrived. 

Under  these  circumstances,  fellow-soldiers,  your  resolution 
to  let  others  declaim  about  firi~vileges  and  constitutional  rights,  will 
never  draw  upon  you  the  charge  of  being  indifferent  to  those  in 
estimable  blessings;  your  attachment  to  them  has  been  proved  by 
a  stronger  title — that  of  having  nobly  fought  to  preserve  them. — • 
You  who  have  thus  supported  them  against  the  open  pretensions 
of  a  powerful  enemy,  will  never,  I  trust,  surrender  them  to  the  un 
derhand  machinations  of  men  who  stand  aloof  in  the  hour  of  peril, 
and  who,  when  the  danger  is  gone,  claim  to  be  the  "  defenders  of 
your  constitution." 

An  honourable  peace  has  dissolved  our  military  connexion; 
and,  in  a  few  days,  I  shall  quit  a  country  endeared  to  me  by  the 
most  pleasing  recollections.  Among  the  most  prominent  of  these, 
gentlemen,  are  those  I  shall  ever  entertain  of  the  distinguished 
bravery,  the  exact  discipline,  the  ardent  zeal,  and  the  important 
services  of  your  corps.  The  offered  friendship  of  each  individual 
composing  it,  I  receive  with  pleasure,  and  with  sincerity  recipro 
cate.  I  shall  always  pride  myself  on  a  fraternity  with  such  men, 
created  in  such  a  cause. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 


NO.  LIV. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  the  secretary  of  war. 
Head-quarters,  7th  military  district. 

New  Orleans^  March  16,  1815. 

SIR — I  have  the  honour  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your 
letter  of  the  16th  ult.  advising  me  of  the  ratification  of  the  treaty 
of  peace  between  Great  Britain  and  the  United  States. 


APPENDIX.  cxix 

In  conformity  with  your  directions,  I  have  forwarded  to  the 
officer  commanding  his  Britannic  majesty's  forces,  in  this  quarter, 
information  of  that  event. 

The  Tennessee  and  Kentucky  militia  will  be  immediately 
marched  to  their  respective  states,  and  discharged  without  receiv 
ing  any  pay  beforehand.  The  Louisiana  and  Mississippi  militia 
will  be  discharged  and  paid  here.  It  is  hoped  that  funds  will  be 
provided  for  the  payment  of  the  former  in  suitable  time. 

Difficulties  are  experienced  from  the  want  of  means  to  pro 
cure  forage,  and  transportation  on  the  return  march,  colonel 
Knight  having  not  yet  arrived.  On  this  account  I  have  offered 
my  bills  on  the  governor  of  Tennessee,  payable  in  treasury  notes 
at  Nashville. 

I  have  received  no  intelligence  of  colonel  Knight,  except  by 
your  letter  of  the  7th  ult. 

The  greater  portion  of  the  regulars  in  this  quarter  having  en 
listed  to  serve  during  the  war,  expect  to  be  immediately  dis 
charged.  As  you  have  not  mentioned  them  in  your  instructions, 
I  shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  you  on  the  subject  as  soon  as  possible. 

It  is  my  intention,  so  soon  as  1  get  the  troops  mustered  out  of 
service  here,  to  remove  my  head-quarters  to  Nashville,  where  I 
shall  expect  to  receive  the  orders  of  the  government. 

Major-general  Gaines  is  placed  in  the  immediate  command 
of  this  section  of  the  district,  and  I  am  happy  to  commit  it  to  one 
in  whom  the  government  has  such  high  and  deserved  confidence. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  8cc. 

A.  JACKSON. 

NO.  LV. 

Letter  from  major  Woodruff"  to  general  Jackson. 

New  Orleans^  March  23</,  1815. 

SIR — In  compliance  with  your  orders  of  the  14th  inst.  I  left 
the  bayou  St.  Johns  at  twelve  o'clock  of  the  same  day,  and  arrived 
at  Dauphine  island  on  the  night  of  the  1 6th,  the  head-quarters  of 
the  British  array. 

I  immediately  informed  major-general  Lambert  of  your  ha 
ving  received  official  notice  of  a  treaty  of  peace  having  been  sign 
ed  and  exchanged  at  the  city  of  Washington,  on  the  17th  of  Fe- 


APPENDIX. 

bruary,  1815,  between  the  United  States  of  America  and  the  go 
vernment  of  Great  Britain;  (a  copy  of  which  I  handed  him) — and 
that  I  was  ordered  by  you  to  receive  all  forts,  places,  artillery,  mu 
nitions  of  war,  or  other  public  or  private  property  captured  during 
the  war,  embraced  by  the  first  article  of  said  treaty;  and  that  I 
was  particularly  instructed  to  receive  all  slaves^  belonging  to  any 
inhabitant  or  citizen  of  the  United-*  States,  captured  or  protected 
by  the  British  army. 

General  Lumbert  informed  me  that  he  could  not  give  up 
fort  Bowyer  until  he  received  official  information,  from  an  au 
thorized  agent  of  his  government,  that  the  treaty  had  been  con 
firmed  by  ours; — that  then  he  would  be  prepared  to  execute,  on 
the  part  of  his  government,  every  article  of  said  treaty,  except 
that  part  relating  to  slaves,  as  it  was  totally  incompatible  with  the 
spirit  and  constitution  of  his  government  to  recognize  slavery  at 
all — that  he  would  use  his  influence,  in  persuading  them  to  return 
to  their  masters,  by  every  argument  in  his  power;  but  that  he  would 
not  use  force  in  compelling  their  obedience,  or  permit  it  to  be 
used  within  the  British  lines.  That  I  might  stand  acquitted  of 
having  discharged  my  duty,  I  addressed  a  note  to  the  British  com 
mander  on  the  16th  instant,  marked  No.  1.  His  note  in  return, 
No.  2,  you  will  perceive  is  evasive,  and  by  no  means  a  satisfactory 
answer  to  mine.  I  again  requested  a  categorical  answer,  particu 
larly  to  that  part  of  my  note  relating  to  slaves.  His  answer  you 
will  find  marked  No.  3. 

I  flatter  myself,  sir,  I  have  done  all  in  my  power  to  effect 
your  wishes,  and  regret  my  exertions  were  not  attended  with  more 
success. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Etc. 

J.  WOODRUFF. 


NO.  LVI. 

better  from  general  Lambert  to  general  Jackson, 

Head-Quarters,  Isle  Dau/ihine,  March  18,  18 15. 

SIR — I  received  with  great  pleasure,  by  the  hands  of  major 

Woodruff,  on  the  evening  of  the  16th,  about  nine  o'clock,  yours 

of  the  13th  instant.     I  communicated  the  contents  immediately  te 


APPENDIX. 

i;ear  admiral  Malcolm,  and  orders  were  issued  for  the  cessation  o'f 
hostilities,  and  to  all  detached  posts  and  ships  to  be  withdrawn  in 
our  respective  commands.  I  daily  expect  an  official  communi 
cation  (similar  to  what  you  have  received)  from  Mr.  Baker.  In 
the  meantime  every  preparation  is  making  for  the  embarkation 
of  this  force,  and  ships  are  now  sent  away,  when  we  are  able  to 
put  sufficient  provisions  on  board  to  take  them  to  Bermuda. 
Victuallers  from  Jamaica  must  be  here  in  a  very  few  days,  when 
every  thing  will  be  put  on  board  as  quickly  as  possible;  and 
should  I  by  that  time  not  have  received  any  intelligence,  the  ad 
miral  and  myself  will  have  no  hesitation  in  putting  to  sea  directly. 
I  have  requested  major  Woodruff,  who  went  up  to  Mobile  yes 
terday,  to  acquaint  the  commanding  officer  that  I  would  let  him 
know  the  moment  we  were  prepared  to  give  up  the  fort,  which 
wouid  be  when  the  transports  could  get  out  of  the  bay.  The  fort 
would  be  restored  in  every  respect  as  when  it  fell  into  our  pos 
session,  with  the  exception  only  of  a  brass  mortar,  cast  in  George 
the  Second's  reign,  which  had  been  sent  away  the  day  after. 

In  the  fulfilling  |he  first  article  of  the  treaty,  I  cannot  consi 
der  the  meaning  of  a  not  causing  any  destruction,  or  carrying  away 
any  artillery,  or  other  public  property,  originally  captured  in  the 
said  forts  or  places,  and  which  shall  remain  therein  upon  the  ex^- 
change  of  the  ratification  of  this  treaty,  or  any  slave,  or  other  pro 
perty,"  having  reference  to  any  antecedent  period  to  the  18th  of 
February,  the  day  of  the  exchange  of  ratifications;  because  it  is 
only  from  that  time  that  the  article  could  be  fulfilled  in  a  long 
war.  If  those  negroes  (the  matter  now  in  question)  belonged 
to  the  territory  or  city  we  were  actually  in  occupation  of,  I 
should  conceive  we  had  no  right  to  take  them  away;  but  by 
their  coming  away,  they  are  virtually  the  same  as  deserters 
or  property  taken  away  at  any  time  of  the  war.  I  am  obliged  to 
say  so  much  in  justification  of  the  right;  but  I  have  from  the  first 
done  all  I  could  to  prevent,  and  subsequently,  together  with  ad 
miral  Malcolm,  have  given  every  facility,  and  used  every  persua 
sion  that  they  should  return  to  their  masters,  and  many  have  done 
so;  but  I  could  not  reconcile  it  to  myself  to  abandon  any,  who,  from 
false  reasoning  perhaps,  joined  us  during  the  period  of  hostilities, 

q 


cxxii  APPENDIX. 

and  have  thus  acted  in  violation  of  the  laws  of  their  country,  and 
besides  become  obnoxious  to  their  masters. 

Had  it  been  an  object  to  take  the  negroes  away,  they  could 
have  been  embarked  in  the  first  instance;  but  they  have  been  per 
mitted  to  remain  in  the  hopes  that  they  might,  return. 

I  am  much  obliged  to  you  for  your  offer  of  supplies,  and  com 
forts  for  the  sick  and  wounded.  I  send  a  commissary,  to  make  a 
few  purchases,  and  have  directed  him  to  call  on  Mr.  Livingston 
with  this  letter. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  8cc. 

JOHN  LAMBERT,  Maj.  Gen.  Com'g. 

NO.  LVII. 

CONGRESS  OF    THE  UNITED  STATES. 

THE  following  resolutions,  expressive  of  the  high  sense  en 
tertained  by  congress  of  the  patriotism  and  good  conduct  of  the 
people  of  Louisiana  and  of  New  Orleans,  were  unanimously 
udopt  d: 

Resolved^  by  the  senate  and  house  of  representatives  of  the 
United  States  of  America  in  congress  assembled.  That  congress 
entertain  a  high  sense  of  the  patriotism,  fidelity,  zeal  and  courage 
with  which  the  people  of  the  state  of  Louisiana  promptly  and  una 
nimously  stepped  forth,  under  circumstances  of  imminent  danger 
from  a  powerful  invading  army,  in  defence  of  all  the  individual} 
social,  and  political  rights  held  dear  by  man.  Congress  declare 
and  proclaim,  that  the  brave  Louisianians  deserve  well  of  the 
whole  people  of  the  Unred  States. 

Resolved^  That  congress  entertain  a  high  sense  of  the  gene- 
i'osity,  benevolence,  and  humanity,  displayed  by  the  people  of  New 
Orleans,  in  voluntarily  offering  the  best  accommodations  in  their 
power,  and  giving  the  kindest  attention  to  the  wounded,  not  only 
of  our  own  army,  but  also  to  the  wounded  prisoners  of  a  van 
quished  foe. 

Resolved^  TJiat  the  president  of  the  United  States  be  re 
quested  to  cause  the  foregoing  resolutions  to  be  communi 
cated  to  his  excellency  the  governor  of  Louisiana,  accompanied 
with  a  request  that  he  cause  the  greatest  possible  publicity  to  be 
given  to  them,  for  the  information  of  the  whole  people  of  Louisi 
ana. 


APPENDIX.  cxxiil 

Resolutions  expressive  of  the  thanks  of  congress  to  major- 
general  Jackson,  and  the  troops  under  his  command,  for  their 
gallantry  and  good  conduct  in  the  defence  of  New  Orleans: 

Resolved^  by  the  senate  and  house  of  representatives  of  the 
United  States  of  America  in  congress  assembled,  That  the  thanks 
of  congress  be,  and  they  are  hereby  given  to  major-general  Jack 
son,  and  through  him  to  the  officers  and  soldiers  of  the  regular 
army,  of  the  militia,  and  of  the  volunteers,  under  his  immediate 
command,  and  the  officers  and  soldiers  charged  with  the  defence 
of  fort  St.  Philip,  for  their  uniform  gallantry  and  good  conduct, 
conspicuously  displayed  against  the  enemy  from  the  time  of  his 
landing  before  New  Orleans  until  his  final  expulsion  from  the 
state  of  Louisiana:  and  particularly  for  their  valour,  skill  and  good 
conduct  on  the  8th  of  January  last,  in  repulsing,  with  great  slaugh 
ter,  a  numerous  British  army  of  chosen  veteran  troops,  when  at 
tempting  by  a  bold  and  daring  attack  to  storm  and  carry  the 
works  hastily  thrown  up  for  the  defence  of  New  Orleans,  and 
thereby  obtaining  a  most  signal  and  complete  victory  over  the 
enemy,  with  a  disparity  of  loss  on  his  part  unexampled  in  military 
annals. 

Resolved,  That  the  president  of  the  United  States  be  request 
ed  to  cause  to  be  struck  a  gold  medal,  with  devices  emblematical 
of  this  splendid  achievement,  and  presented  to  major-general 
Jackson,  as  a  testimony  of  the  high  sense  entertained  by  congress 
of  his  judicious  and  distinguished  conduct  on  that  memorable  oc 
casion. 

Resolved,  That  the  president  of  the  United  States  be  re 
quested  to  cause  the  foregoing  resolutions  to  be  communicated  to 
major-general  Jackson,  in  such  terms  as  he  may  deem  best  ^cal 
culated  to  give  effect  to  the  objects  thereof. 

Resolved,  That  congress  entertain  a  high  sense  of  the  valour 
and  good  conduct  of  commodore  D.  T.  Patterson,  of  the  officers, 
petty  officers,  and  seamen  attached  to  his  command,  for  their 
prompt  and  efficient  co-operation  with  general  Jackson,  in  the 
late  gallant  and  successful  defence  of  the  city  of  New  Orleans, 
when  assailed  by  a  powerful  British  force. 

Resolved,  That  congress  entertain  a  high  sense  of  the  valour 
and  good  conduct  of  major  Daniel  Carmick,  of  the  officers,  non- 


cxxiv  APPENDIX. 

commissioned-officers  and  marines,  under  his  command,  in  the 
defence  of  said  city,  on  the  late  memorable  occasion. 

NO.  LV11I. 

Letter  from  general  Jackson  to  general  Lambert. 

Head-Quarters,  7th  Military  District, 
SIR,  New  Orleans,  20th  February,  1315. 

BY  my  letter  of  this  date,  addressed  to  sir  Alexander  Coch- 
rane,  you  will  perceive  that  I  have  fully  acquiesced  in  your  ideas 
relative  to  the  delivery  and  exchange  of  prisoners,  and  you  will 
herewith  receive  all  those  now  here  in  a  state  to  be  removed. 

As  you  intimate  that  you  do  not  consider  the  slaves  as  under 
your  control,  I  have  addressed  the  only  further  demand  I  shall 
make  on  that  subject  to  sir  \lexander  Cochrane. 

Some  of  my  officers,  under  a  mistaken  idea  that  deserters 
•were  confined  with  the  prisoners,  have,  as  I  have  understood, 
made  improper  applications  to  some  of  the  latter  to  quit  your 
service.  It  is  possible  they  may  have  in  some  instances  succeed 
ed  in  procuring  either  a  feigned  or  a  real  consent  to  this  effect; 
the  whole  of  the  transaction,  however,  met  my  marked  reprehen 
sion,  and  all  the  prisoners  are  now  restored  to  you.  But  as  im 
proper  allurements  may  have  been  held  out  to  these  men,  it  will 
be  highly  gratifying  to  my  feelings  to  learn  that  no  investigation 
•will  be  made,  or  punishment  inflicted,  in  consequence  of  the  con 
duct  of  those  who  may,  under  such  circumstances,  have  swerved 
from  their  duty.  As  the  transaction  might  not  have  been  other 
wise  disclosed  to  you,  the  notice  I  now  take  of  it  shows  the  confi 
dence  I  feel  that  you  will  not  make  use  of  any  implied  presump 
tion  to  be  drawn  from  it. 

ANDREW  JACKSON. 

NO.  LIX. 

RESOLUTIONS  OF  THE  LEGISLATURE  OF  LOUISIANA. 
J3c  it  resolved  by  the  senate  and  house  of  representatives  of 
the  state  of  Louisiana  in  general  assembly  convened,  That  the  le 
gislature  of  the  state  of  Louisiana  deem  it  their  duty  to  proclaim 
the  facts  herein  after  stated,  as  bearing  testimony  to  the  zeal  and 
patriotism  that. were  displayed  by  the  citizens  in  every  part  of  this 
state,  during  the  late  invasion  of  the  British. 


APPENDIX.  cxxv 

At  the  first  news  of  our  danger,  the  militia,  together  with  a 
vast  number  of  volunteers,  flocked  into  New  Orleans  from  every 
county  in  this  state.  The  planters  on  both  sides  of  the  river, 
within  a  space  of  several  leagues,  either  above  or  below  town,  fur 
nished  thousands  of  their  slaves,  and  sent  them  to  every  particular 
place  where  their  labour  was  thought  necessary;  it  was  through 
the  means  which  were  voluntarily  granted  by  the  planters,  that 
most  of  the  artillery,  ammunition  and  provisions  were  transported; 
and  whenever  detachments  occasionally  stopped  at  their  planta 
tions,  the  latter  met  them  with  the  most  cordial  reception,  and 
were  supplied  with  both  food  and  forage  as  the  same  was  wanting 
or  could  possibly  be  procured. 

It  should  be  remarked,  that  even  those  planters,  whose  es- 
states  had  already  been  destroyed  by  the  enemy,  or  had  fallen  into 
his  possession,  far  from  being  dismayed  by  the  sad  prospect  before 
them,  had  only  been  brought  to  that  pitch  of  misfortune  that  their 
love  of  their  country  might  appear  with  a  greater  lustre.  Thus 
at  the  same  time  that  MM.  Villere's,  Delaronde's,  Lacoste's  and 
JSienvenu's  sugar  estates  were  laid  waste,  and  made  a  prey  to  con 
flagration,  M.  Villere,  senior,  major-general  of  our  gallant  mi 
litia,  went  on  a  survey  of  the  upper  counties  for  the  purpose  of 
hastening  re-enforcements,  which,  at  the  first  call,  presented 
themselves  in  readiness  to  march;  and  when,  after  his  return  to 
camp,  he  had  once  taken  charge  at  the  second  line  of  the  post 
that  had  been  assigned  him,  he  was  seen  there  invariably  to  fulfil 
his  duties  with  that  wonderful  tranquillity  of  mind  which  a  man, 
having  nothing  to  lose,  would  have  hardly  been  capable  of:  yet 
this  gentleman,  the  head  of  a  numerous  family,  could  not  but 
know,  that  one  hundred  slaves  of  his  own  were  on  his  plantation 
at  the  mercy  of  the  British,  and  that  all  his  moveable  property  had 
already  been  either  plundered  or  destroyed. 

His  son,  M.  Villere,  jun.  major  of  the  3d  regiment,  after  ha 
ving,  at  the  peril  of  his  life,  effected  his  escape  from  the  British 
army,  who  had  surprised  him  at  his  house,  joined  the  forces  that 
marched  to  repel  the  enemy  on  the  23d  of  December,  and  has 
ever  since  performed  an  active  duty. 

The  important  position  of  Chef-Mentcur  was  protected  by 
major  Lacoste  at  the  head  of  his  corps,  consisting  of  free  men  of 


exxvi  APPENDIX. 

colour,  whilst  bis  sugar  estate  was  set  to  ruin  and  devastation. 
M.  Lacoste,  jun.  his  son,  though  deprived  of  the  use  of  one  arm, 
nevertheless  shared  constantly  with  his  brother  soldiers  the  toils 
and  dangers  of  war. 

Mr.  Delaronde,  colonel  of  the  third  regiment,  though  he  ab 
stained  from  claiming  that  part  of  the  service  which  his  rank  en 
titled  him  to,  did  not  disdain  to  serve  as  a  guide,  and  with  immi 
nent  peril  continued'scouting  in  woods  almost  impracticable,  both 
in  the  flank  and  rear  of  the  British,  for  the  purpose  of  reconnoi 
tring  and  making  known  their  position. 

In  town,  colonel  Fortier,  sen.  contributed  in  a  great  measure 
to  the  more  prompt  departure  for  Chef-Menteur  of  the  free 
men  of  colour,  already  embodied,  by  furnishing  them,  at  his  own 
cost,  with  such  articles  as  they  stood  in  need  of.  To  him  also  the 
country  owes  the  forming  and  organizing  a  second  corps  of  free 
men  of  colour,  to  whom  the  brave  Savary  was  appointed  a  cap 
tain.  At  his  call,  both  captain  and  soldiers  repaired  to  his  house 
to  be  enlisted.  He  personally  attended  to  the  arming  and  equip 
ping  of  them;  and  through  his  exertions  that  company  under  the 
command  of  major  Daquin,  was  enabled  to  take  the  field  and  to 
face  the  enemy  a  few  hours  after  its  formation.  M.  Fortier 
caused  also  several  hundred  of  muskets  unfit  for  use  to  be  re 
paired. 

No  sooner  was  it  reported  that  a  British  squadron  had  arri 
ved  on  our  coast?  tnan  the  uniform  companies  of  the  militia  of 
New  Orleans,  under  the  command  of  major  Plauche,and  captains 
P.  Roche,  St.  Geme,  Hudry,  White  and  Guibert,  and  the  rifle 
corps  under  the  command  of  captain  Beale,  who  had  some  time 
before  tendered  their  services,  were  placed  at  the  bayou  St.  John^ 
to  which  point  it  was  expected  the  enemy  would  attempt  to  pe 
netrate.  It  was  from  that  position  those  gallant  companies  march 
ed,  with  the  rapidity  of  lightning,  to  the  plains  of  Villere,  on  the 
23d  of  December,  at  the  first  appearance  of  the  British.  They 
travelled  nearly  twelve  miles  with  wonderful  rapidity,  and  fought 
with  a  bravery  and  resolution  that  would  have  done  credit  even  to 
x  experienced  soldiers.  The  first  and  second  regiments  of  the  mi 
litia  of  New  Orleans,  under  the  command  of  colonel  Dejan  and 
Zenon  Cavelier,  have  conducted  themselves  in  the  several  posts 


APPENDIX.  cxxvii 

they  were  called  upon  to  defend,  with  zeal  and  courage.  They 
have  borne  with  patience  the  fatigue  of  painful  marches,  occasion 
ed  by  their  being  successively  sent  from  one  position  to  another. 
The  fourth  regiment,  commanded  by  Mr.  G.  W.  Morgan,  their 
colonel,  was  entrusted  with  the  defence  of  Chef-Menteur,  upon 
major  Lacoste's  corps  being  withdrawn  therefrom:  they  discharg 
ed  their  duty  in  a  manner  that  bade  defiance  to  all  possible  at 
tempt,  on  the  part  of  the  enemy,  to  force  that  important  pass. 
Three  volunteer  troops  of  horse,  the  one  of  them  from  the  Atta- 
kapas,  under  the  command  of  captain  Dubuclay,  and  the  other 
from  Feliciana,  commanded  by  captain  Smith,  and  the  last  from 
Bayou  Sarah,  under  command  of  captain  Griffith,  had  already  ar 
rived  in  town,  prior  to  the  landing  of  the  British.  Two  more 
troops  of  horse  were  immediately  formed  at  New  Orleans,  headed 
by  captains  Chaveau  and  Ogden.  The  conduct  of  those  several 
corps,  upon  every  occasion  where  their  services  have  been  called 
for,  deserves  particular  notice:  and  they  were  extremely  useful. 
Captain  Dubuclay  was  wounded  in  the  head  by  a  musket-ball, 
while  in  the  act  of  rallying  some  men  in  an  engagement  on  the 
right  bank  of  the  river. 

General  Thomas,  general  Hopkins  and  general  M'Causland, 
at  the  bead  of  the  gallant  militia  under  their  command,  hastened 
by  forced  marches  from  their  respective  counties  in  order  to  assist 
in  defending  the  country. 

General  Garrigues  Flaujac,  by  his  patriotism  and  the  talents 
he  displayed,  whilst  the  capital  was  threatened  by  the  enemy,  has 
earned  the  honour  of  being  ranked  among  those  who  deserved 
well  of  their  country. 

Whilst  our  gallant  militia  were  employed  in  the  defence  of 
the  country  at  the  several  posts  which  had  been  assigned  them, 
the  citizens  more  advanced  in  years,  having  voluntarily  form 
ed  themselves  into  companies  of  veterans,  attended  to  the 
preservation  of  police  and  civil  order  in  town.  They  greatly 
contributed  by  their  good  countenance,  to  dissipate  the  alarm 
created  by  the  approach  of  the  enemy;  and  by  their  unwearied 
exertions  they  insured  the  speedy  and  faithful  conveyance  to  the 
camp  of  such  articles  as  were  to  be  sent  there.  They  were  .also 
usefully  employed  in  overseeing  that  the  many  donations  made  by 


cxxviti  APPENDIX. 

our  fellow-citizens,  should  be  both  applied  properly  and  without 
confusion.  At  the  head  of  these  respectable  veterans  appeared 
Mr.  Debuys,  sen.  their  captain. 

General  Labatut  had  the  command  of  the  town.  He  perform 
ed  his  task  with  a  zeal  and  activity  that  have  done  him  infinite 
honour. 

The  mayor  and  city  council  of  New  Orleans,  by  the  adop 
tion  of  measures  that  indicate  their  foresight  and  humanity,  have 
maintained  our  internal  peace,  and  so  far  prevented  a  scarcity  of 
provisions  to  be  felt  in  town,  as  to  make  it  doubtful  whether  the 
presence  of  the  enemy  in  our  neighbourhood  had  diminished  our 
supplies. 

The  attention  of  Mr.  Nicholas  Girod,  the  mayor  of  New 
Orleans,  in  the  meanwhile,  was  extended,  with  great  benefit,  to 
each  part  of  the  service.  All  the  means  placed  at  his  disposal 
were  applied  in  a  manner  that  told  a  skilful  administrator.  Such 
families  as  were  in  actual  distress,  were  relieved,  and  furnished 
with  provisions  agreeably  to  a  decree  of  the  city  council  appro 
priating  a  sum  fully  adequate  to  this  purpose  of  benevolence. 

The  fair  of  New  Orleans,  without  exception,  eagerly  under 
took  a  variety  of  needle-work,  for  the  use  of  the  army.  Many  of 
them,  who  till  then  had  been  accustomed  to  do  none  but  the  nicest 
work,  did  not  disdain  sewing  cloaks  of  the  coarsest  woollens. 
They  gave  both  lint  and  linen  for  the  use  of  the  sick  and  wounded. 
The  Ursuline  nuns  are  also  entitled  to  a  particular  notice. 
They  gave  admittance  within  the  walls  of  their  monastery  to  as 
many  of  the  sick  as  could /be  conveniently  lodged  therein,  and  af 
forded  them  every  aid,  conformably  to  the  dictates  of  true  charity. 
All  the  practising  surgeons  and  physicians  in  the  town  have 
acted  so  as  to  do  the  highest  honour  to  their  profession.  Their 
readiness  in  bestowing  assistance  to  the  military  who  wanted  it, 
was  such  as  did  not  permit  them  to  wait  till  an  application  should 
be  made  for  their  services.  A  sympathetic  feeling  led  them  se 
veral  miles  below  town  to  meet  the  wounded  on  the  way  and  give 
them  immediate  attendance. 

A  committee  named  by  the  same  veterans  above  mentioned, 
whose  patriotism  was  not  merely  confined  to  the  performance  of 
the  military  duties  they  had  willingly  submitted  to,- — on  which 


APPENDIX.  cxxix 

committee  they  had  appointed  namely,  Messrs.  Fortier,  sen.  Jh. 
Soulie,  and  Mr.  Louaillier,  a  member  of  the  house  of  representa 
tives, — was  affording  relief  to  the  sick  and  wounded  with  an  inde 
fatigable  zeal;  procuring  subscriptions  for  the  purchase  of  cloth 
ing,  intended  for  our  fellow-soldiers,  who  had  left  their  homes, 
unprovided  for  a  winter  campaign.  A  sum  exceeding  fourteen 
thousand  dollars  was  actually  laid  out  for  that  laudable  object,  in 
cluding  in  it  the  appropriation  of  six  thousand  dollars  made  by  the 
legislature. 

Every  member  on  that  committee  deserves  the  highest  praise 
for  their  perseverance  and  assiduity  in  fulfilling  their  task. 

The  enumeration  of  the  corps  and  individuals  who  have  given 
so  many  proofs  of  patriotism  and  devotion  to  their  country,  ought 
not  to  be  closed  without  mentioning 'the  governor  of  this  state, 
whose  efforts  have  constantly  been  directed  towards  cherishing 
the  happy  dispositions  of  the  inhabitants,  and  whose  authority  to 
its  utmost  extent  has  been  employed  in  securing  the  success  of 
the  measures  adopted  for  the  defence  of  this  country. 

JBe  it  further  resolved  by  the  authority  aforesaid,  That  each 
and  every  person  and  collection  of  persons  mentioned  in  the  fore 
going  statement  are  justly  entitled  to  the  gratitude  of  their  country. 

Be  it  further  resolved  by  the  authority  aforesaid,  That  it 
shall  be  the  duty  of  the  governor  of  the  state  of  Louisiana,  in  the 
name  of  the  said  state,  to  present  the  corps  of  veterans  of  New 
Orleans  with  a  stand  of  colours  bearing  the  following  inscription, 
4{  Our  sons  were  rejielling  the  foe,  we  offended  to  the  safety  of  their 
mothers  and  wives;"  and  on  the  other  side  thereof  will  be  seen  a 
liver,  with  an  eagle  hovering  over  the  same,  and  this  inscription 
on  the  river's  bank  "for  common  use,  and  the  benefit  of  all" 
MAGLOIRE  GUICHARD, 

Sfieaker  of  the  House  of  Representatives. 
FULWAR  SKIPWITH,  President  of  the  Senate. 

NO.  LX. 

By  the  President  of  the  United  States  of  America. 

A  PROCLAMATION. 

AMONG  the  many  evils  produce!  by  the  wars,  which,  with 
little  intermission,  have  afflicted  V'urop;,  and  extended  their  ra 
vages  into  other  quarters  of  the  ulobe,  for  a  period  exceeding 
twenty  years,  the  dispersion  of  a  convderable  portion  of  the  inha- 

r 


cxxx  APPENDIX. 

bitants  of  different  countries,  in  sorrow  and  in  want,  has  not  been 
the  least  injurious  to  human  happiness,  nor  the  least  severe  in  the 
trial  of  human  virtue. 

It  had  been  long  ascertained  that  many  foreigners,  flying  from 
the  dangers  of  their  own  home,  and  that  some  citizens,  forgetful 
of  their  duty,  had  co-operated  in  forming  an  establishment  on  the 
island  of  Barataria,  near  the  mouth  of  the  river  Mississippi,  for 
the  purpose  of  a  clandestine  and  lawless  trade.  The  government 
of  the  United  States  caused  the  establishment  to  be  broken  up  and 
destroyed;  and,  having  obtained  the  means  of  designating  the 
offenders  of  every  description,  it  only  remained  to  answer  the  de 
mands  of  justice  by  inflicting  an  exemplary  punishment. 

But  it  has  since  been  represented  that  the  offenders  have  ma 
nifested  a  sincere  penitence;  that  they  have  abandoned  the  prose 
cution  of  the  worst  cause  for  the  support  of  the  best,  and,  particu 
larly,  that  they  have  exhibited,  in  the  defence  of  New  Orleans, 
unequivocal  traits  of  courage  and  fidelity.  Offenders,  who  have 
refused  to  become  the  associates  of  the  enemy  in  the  war,  upon 
the  most  seducing  terms  of  invitation;  and  who  have  aided  to  re 
pel  his  hostile  invasion  of  the  territory  of  the  United  States,  can 
no  longer  be  considered  as  objects  of  punishment,  but  as  objects 
of  a  generous  forgiveness. 

It  has  therefore  been  seen,  with  great  satisfaction,  that  the 
general  assembly  of  the  state  of  Louisiana  earnestly  recommend 
those  offenders  to  the  benefit  of  a  full  pardon:  And  in  compliance 
with  that  recommendation,  as  well  as  in  consideration  of  all  the 
other  extraordinary  circumstances  of  the  case,  I  James  Madison^ 
president  of  the  United  States  of  America,  do  issue  this  procla 
mation,  hereby  granting,  publishing  and  declaring,  a  free  and  full 
pardon  of  all  offences  committed  in  violation  of  any  act  or  acts  of 
the  congress  of  the  said  United  States,  touching  the  revenue, 
trade  and  navigation  thereof,  or  touching  the  intercourse  and  com 
merce  of  the  United  States  with  foreign  nations,  at  any  time  be 
fore  the  eighth  day  of  January,  in  the  present  year  one  thousand 
eight  hundred  and  fifteen,  by  any  person  or  persons  whatsoever, 
being  inhabitants  ©f  New  Orleans  and  the  adjacent  country,  or 
being  inhabitants  of  the  said  island  of  Barataria,  and  the  places  ad 
jacent:  Provided,  that  every  person,  claiming  the  benefit  of  this 
full  pardon,  in  order  to  entitle  himself  thereto,  shall  produce  a  cer- 


APPENDIX.  cxxxi 

tificate  in  writing  from  the  governor  of  the  state  of  Louisiana, 
stating  that  such  person  has  aided  in  the  defence  of  New  Orleans 
and  the  adjacent  country,  during  the  invasion  thereof  as  aforesaid. 
And  I  do  hereby  further  authorize  and  direct  all  suits,  indict 
ments,  and  prosecutions,  for  fines,  penalties,  and  forfeitures,  against 
any  person  or  persons,  who  shall  be  entitled  to  the  benefit  of  this 
full  pardon,  forthwith  to  be  stayed,  discontinued  and  released:  And 
all  civil  officers  are  hereby  required,  according  to  the  duties  of 
their  respective  stations,  to  carry  this  proclamation  into  immediate 
and  faithful  execution. 

DONE  at  the  city  of  Washington,  the  sixth  day  of  Fe 
bruary,  in  the  year  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and 
fifteen,  and  of  the  independence  of  the  United  States 
the  thirty-ninth.  JAMES  MADISON. 

By  the  president,  JAMES  MONROE, 

Acting  Secretary  of  State. 

NO.  LXI. 

DECISION  OF  THE  COURT  MARTIAL  IN  THE  CASE  OF   MAJOR  VIL 
LERE'. 
Head-Quarters,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

New  Orleans,  March  15,  1815. 

AFTER  a  full  examination  of  all  the  testimony  for  and  against 
the  prosecution,  the  court  find  the  said  major  Villere  "  not  guilty" 
of  the  charges  and  specifications  exhibited  against  him,  and  do  ac 
quit  him  of  all  and  every  0116  of  them. — And  the  court  consider  it 
due  to  the  accused,  further  to  declare,  that "  major  Villere  appears 
to  have  performed  his  duty,  from  the  moment  he  was  left  in  com 
mand  under  the  orders  of  major-general  Villere,  with  zeal  and 
fidelity;  and  that  the  circumstance  of  his  surprise  and  capture  by 
the  enemy,  though  much  to  be  regretted,  might  have  occurred  to 
the  most  vigilant  officer,  and  must  be  attributed  to  the  loss  of  the 
whole  of  his  picquet  or  advanced  guard,  and  the  extraordinary  ra 
pidity  with  which  the  enemy  moved  from  that  point." 

The  major-general  commanding  approved  the  foregoing  sen 
tence  of  the  general  court  martial,  and  ordered  major  Villere  to 
resume  his  sword  without  delay. 

By  order^  ROBERT  BUTLER,  Adj.  Gen. 

No TE.— Major  Villere  did  not  introduce  any  testimony  in  his 
behalf. 


cxxxii  APPENDIX. 

NO.  LXII. 

COURT   OF    INQUIRE. 

Extracts  of  the  Proceedings  of  a  Court  of  Inquiry  relative  to  the 

Retreat  on  the  Right  Bank  of  the  Misaissififii,  on  (he  St/i  of 

January,  1815. 

THE  court,  on  mature  deliberation,  are  of  opinion  that  the 
conduct  of  colonel  Davis,  Dijan  and  Cavallier,  in  the  action  and 
retreat  on  the  8th  of  January,  on  the  western  bank  of  the  Missis 
sippi,  is  not  reprehensible,  nor  do  they  know  of  any  misconduct,  as 
officers,  in  either  since  that  time. 

The  causes  of  the  retreat  are  attributed  to  the  shameful  flight 
of  the  command  of  major  Arnaud,  sent  to  oppose  the  landing  of 
the  enemy; — >the  retreat  of  the  Kentucky  militia,  which,  consider 
ing  their  position,  the  deficiency  of  their  arms,  and  other  causes, 
may  be  excusable; — and  the  panic  and  confusion  introduced  in 
every  part  of  the  line,  thereby  occasioning  the  retreat  and  confu 
sion  of  the  Orleans  and  Louisiana  drafted  militia. 

Whilst  the  court  find  much  to  applaud  in  the  zeal  and  gal 
lantry  of  the  officer  immediately  commanding,  they  believe  that 
a  farther  reason  for  the  retreat  may  be  found  in  the  manner  in 
which  the  force  was  posted  on  the  line,  which  they  consider  ex 
ceptionable.  The  commands  of  colonels  Dijan,  Cavallier  and 
Declauett,  composing  five  hundred  men,  supported  by  three  pieces 
of  artillery,  having  in  front  a  strong  breastwork,  occupying  only  a 
space  of  two  hundred  yards,  whilst  the  Kentucky  militia,  only  one 
hundred  and  seventy  men  strong,  without  artillery,  occupied  more 
than  three  hundred  yards,  covered  by  a  small  ditch  only. 

WM.  CARROLL,  Maj.  Gen.  President  of  the  Court. 


NO.  LXIII. 

COURT    OF     INQUIRY. 

At  a  Court  of  Inquiry  assembled  in  the  Naval  arsenal,  at  New  Or 
leans^  by  order  of  commodore  Daniel  T.  Patterson,  command 
ing  the  naval  forces  of  the  United  States,  on  the  New  Orleans 
station,  and  continued  by  adjournment  from  day  to  day,— -from. 
Monday  the  \5th,  until  Friday  the  19  th  of  May,  1815 — 
Present — Master  commandant,  Louis  Alexis,  president — 
Lieutenant  commandant  Charles  C.  B.  Thompson,  and  lieutenant 
Charles  E.  Crawley,  members— hr  the  purpose  of  investigating 


APPENDIX.  cxxxiii 

the  conduct  of  the  officers  and  men  of  the  late  division  of  Uni 
ted  States'  gun  vessels,  under  the  command  of  lieutenant  com 
mandant  Thomas  Ap  C.  Jones,  captured  by  a  flotilla  of  British 
barges  and  lanches,  on  the  14th  of  December,  1814.  The  court 
being  organized,  agreeably  to  form,  commenced  with  the  exami 
nation  of  the  testimony  in  relation  to  the  conduct  of  the  commanding 
officer  of  the  division;  and  after  hearing  attentively  all  the  evi 
dence  that  could  be  produced  on  that  subject,  proceeded  to  a  mi 
nute  investigation  of  the  whole  affair. 

It  appears  to  the  court,  that  on  the  12th  of  December  last, 
the  British  fleet  first  made  its  appearance  off  Cat  and  Ship 
islands — that  lieutenant  commandant  Jones,  after  having  recon 
noitred  with  his  division  of  gun-vessels,  five  in  number,  and  ascer 
tained  the  state  of  the  enemy's  force,  on  the  13th,  a  flotilla  of  the 
enemy's  barges  appearing  to  advance,  attempted  to  reach  the  fort 
at  the  Petty  Coquilles,  but  that  in  consequence  of  the  current 
being  ahead,  and  the  wind  failing,  he  was  prevented  from  getting 
any  further  than  the  Malheureux  islands,  where  he  anchored  bis 
gun-vessels  between  twelve  and  two  at  night. 

It  appears  to  the  court,  that  on  the  morning  of  the  14th,  the 
enemy's  flotilla  being  perceived  to  be  still  advancing,  he  placed 
his  division  in  the  best  position  to  receive  them,  and  to  oppose 
their  passage — that  the  enemy  advanced  to  the  attack  in  the 
course  of  the  forenoon,  and  that  the  number  of  the  barges  and 
lanches  to  which  the  gun-vessels  were  opposed  was  between  for 
ty-five  and  fifty. 

It  appears  to  the  court,  that  about  one-third  of  this  number 
attacked  the  flag-vessel  No.  156,  while  the  others  surrounded 
chiefly  No.  162  and  163,  and  that  after  lieutenant  commandant 
Jones  had  been  very  severely  wounded,  Mr.  George  Parker,  his 
master's  mate,  continued  the  action  until  overpowered  by  num 
bers,  to  which  no  effectual  resistance  could  be  made;  during  which 
time  several  of  the  enemy's  barges  were  sunk  alongside,  and  great 
slaughter  done  in  others 

It  appears  to  the  court,  that  gun- vessel  No.  163  was  the  se 
cond  vessel  carried,  after  a  gallant  opposition,  having  previously- 
kept  off  the  enemy  for  some  time,  and  being  entirely  surrounded. 

It  appears  to  the  court,  that  gun-vessel  No.  142,  was  the 
vessel  next  carried;  that  this  was  not  effected,  however,  until  her 


cxxxiv  APPENDIX. 

commander,  lieutenant  Shedden,  had  been  most  severely  wound 
ed  (who,  nevertheless,  remained  on  deck  and  continued  to  give 
orders  to  the  last,)  nor  until  she  was  completely  surrounded  by 
the  enemy,  who  suffered  greatly  in  the  contest. 

It  appears  to  the  court,  that  No.  5,  sailing-master  Ferris,  was 
the  next  vessel  that  fell  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy — that  the 
enemy  succeeded  in  boarding  her  at  a  time,  when  further  resist 
ance  was  rendered  ineffectual  by  the  dismounting  of  her  twenty- 
four  pounder,  and  when  the  fire  from  the  other  gun-vessels  had 
been  turned  upon  her,  after  their  capture. 

It  appears  to  the  court,  that  No.  23,  lieutenant  M'Keever,  was 
the  last  vessel  captured,  and  that  this  was  effected  at  about  half 
past  twelve  o'clock,  after  the  enemy  had  succeeded  in  turning  the 
tire  of  the  other  gun-vessels,  previously  captured,  upon  her. 

It  also  appears  to  the  court,  that  the  barges  and  lanches  of 
the  enemy  were  all  mounted  with  cannon,  and  had  from  a  thou 
sand  to  twelve  hundred  men  on  board,  armed  in  the  best  possible 
manner. 

And,  lastly,  it  further  appears  to  the  court,  that  after  gun- 
vessel  No.  156  had  been  captured  by  the  enemy,  her  fire  was 
turned  upon  the  other  gun  vessels,  and  continued  for  a  considera 
ble  time  under  the  American  colours. 

The  result  of  this  inquiry  is,  a  unanimous  opinion,  that  lieu 
tenant  commandant  Jones  evinced  by  his  movements,  previous  to 
the  action,  a  judgment  highly  creditable  to  his  character — that 
when  an  attack  had  become  certain,  he  availed  himself  of  every 
means  to  gain  the  best  position  for  his  squadron;  and  that,  during 
the  subsequent  engagement,  when  opposed  to  a  force  of  at  least 
nine  times  his  number,  in  large,  well-appointed  boats,  formidably 
armed,  he  evinced  a  firmness  and  intrepidity  worthy  the  emula 
tion  of  his  countrymen,  and  reflecting  the  highest  honour  on  the 
service  to  which  he  belongs. 

The  court  likewise  conceive,  that  midshipman  Parker,  who 
acted  as  master's-mate  during  the  action,  on  board  the  flag-ves 
sel,  displayed,  in  his  determined  resistance  to  the  enemy,  after  the 
fall  of  his  commander,  the  most  signal  bravery;  and  that  he  merits, 
in  an  especial  degree,  the  notice  of  his  government. 

The  court  feels  gratified  in  expressing  the  opinion,  that  the 
brave  crew  of  gun- vessel  No.  156  forcibly  felt  the  example  o* 


APPENDIX.  cxxxv 

their  officers;  and  that,  under  its  influence,  they  maintained  a  most 
unequal  conflict,  with  unparalleled  destruction  to  the  enemy,  un 
til  they  were  borne  down  by  numbers  to  which  no  opposition 
could  be  made. — Nor  did  the  fall  of  this  vessel,  by  which  the  ene 
my's  force  was  not  only  increased,  but,  by  her  position,  in  a  great 
measure  covered,  check  the  ardour  of  the  gallant  defenders  of 
the  rest  of  the  squadron;  for  we  find  them  contending  as  long  as 
the  least  prospect  of  annoying  the  enemy  lasted;  their  exertions 
unimpaired  by  their  loss,  and  yielding  at  last,  in  succession  only, 
to  the  concentrated  force  of  the  enemy,  brought  to  act  against 
each  vessel. 

With  the  clearest  evidence  for  their  guide,  the  court  expe 
rience  the  most  heartfelt  gratification  in  declaring  the  opinion, 
that  lieutenant  commandant  Jones,  and  his  gallant  supporters, 
lieutenants  Spedden  and  M'Keever,  sailing-masters  Ulrich  and 
Ferris,  their  officers  and  men,  performed  their  duty  on  this  occa 
sion  in  the  most  able  and  gallant  manner,  and  that  the  action  has 
added  another  and  distinguished  honour  to  the  naval  character  of 

our  country. 

Louis  ALEXIS, 

Master  Commandant  U.  S.  Na~vij. 
G.  DAVIS, 

Officiating  Judge  Advocate. 

In  approving  the  proceedings  and  opinion  of  the  court  of  in 
quiry,  I  avail  myself  with  pleasure  of  the  favourable  occasion  thus 
afforded  me  to  express  my  admiration  of  the  gallantry  and  skill 
displayed  by  lieutenant  Jones,  and  his  brave  companions,  in  the 
defence  made  by  them  against  so  overwhelming  a  force  as  not  to 
afford  a  prospect  of  success,  to  which  the  enemy  were  astonished 
to  find  a  resistance  offered.  In  this  unequal  contest  I  trust  it  will 
be  found,  that  the  national  and  naval  character  has  been  nobly  sus 
tained — that  the  resistance  of  the  attack  of  so  very  superior  a 
force  has  contributed,  in  no  small  degree,  to  the  eventual  safety 
of  this  city. 

The  proceedings  and  opinion  of  the  court  of  inquiry,  of  which 
master  commandant  Louis  Alexis  is  president,  are  approved. 

DANIEL  T.  PATTERSON, 
Captain  V.  S.  JVavy9  com'g.  A*.  0.  Station. 


CXXXV1 


APPENDIX, 


NO.  LX1V. 

A  list  of  the  several  corps  composing  the  British  army  at  the  time 
of  its  landing  on  the  shores  of  the  Mississippi,  with  an  estimate 
of  their  respective  force. 

"*  4th  regiment,  king's  own,  lieutenant-colonel  Fran 
cis  Brooke  750  strong 
7th     do.      Royal  Fusiliers,  lieutenant-colonel   E. 

Blakeney  850 

— *  1 4th     do.    Duchess  of  York's  own  (light  dragoons) 

lieutenant-colonel  C.  M.  Baker      -       -  350 

— v-2  Ist*^  do.  Royal  North  Britain  fusiliers,  lieutenant- 
colonel  W.  Patterson  900 
,  40th     do.     Sommersetshire,  lieutenant-colonel  H. 

Thornton  1000 

43d     do.      Monmouth  (light  infantry)  lientenant- 

colonel  Patrickson       -  -  850 

— - »44th'    do.     East  Essex,  lieutenant-colonel  honour 
able  Thomas  Mullen  750 
— ~85th  *  do.     Buck  volunteers  (light  infantry)  lieuten 
ant-colonel  William  Thornton      - 


650 

"*9Sd^dQ.  Highland,  lieutenant-colonel  Robert  Dale  1100 

- ---^95thf  do.  Rifle  corps,  major  Samuel  Mitchell     -  500 
*->  1st  v  do.     West  India,  lieutenant-colonel  C.  W. 

Whitby  700 
— *-5th     do.    West  India,  lieutenant-colonel  A.  M.  K. 

Hamilton  700 
A  detachment  from  the  62cl  regiment  350 
^Rock!et  brigade,  artillery,  drivers,  engineers, -sap 
pers  and  miners  1500 
Royal  marines     -                                                 -  1500 
Sailors  taken  from  the  fleet       -  2000 

Total  14,450 


*  Of  this  regiment  we  have  seen  two  returns  signed  by  D.  Dervan,  adju 
tant,  of  the  17th  December  and  5th  January,  each  of  which  justify  the  amount 
here  given— its  establishment  was  one  thousand  two  hundred  and  eight. 

f  This  regiment  consists  of  three  battalions,  of  one  thousand  men  each, 
of  which  only  a  demi-battalion  was  sent  to  Louisiana. 


APPENDIX.  cxxxvii 

Staff  of  l hf  British  jinny. 

Sir  Edward  M.  Packeriham,  colonel  of  the  7th  regiment  of  foot-, 
lieutenant-general  commander-in-chief  of  the  expedition. 

Major-general  Samuel  Gibbs,  colonel  of  the  59th  regiment  of  foot, 
commanding  the  first  division. 

Major-general  John  Lambert,  colonel  1st  regiment  foot- guards, 
commanding  the  second  division. 

Major-general  John  Keane,  colonel  60th  regiment  of  foot,  com 
manding  the  third  division. 

Lieutenant-colonel  John  Dixon  of  the  royal  artillery,  commanding 
the  artillery. 

Lieutenant-colonel  Birrgoyne,  of  the  royal  engineers,  commanding 
the  engineer  department. 

Lieutenant-colonel  Steven,  adjutant- general. 

Lieutenant-colonel  Bell,  quarter-master-^eneral. 

Lieutenant-colonel  Bradford  and  major  Smith,  military  secretaries. 

Mr.  Soane,  purveyor-general. 

Mr.  Hunter,  paymaster-general. 

Mr.  Moody,  commissary- general. 

Doctor  John  Robb,  inspector-general  of  hospitals. 

Doctor  Thomson,  inspector  of  hospitals. 

In  addition  to  the  above,  T  give  the  following  letter  as  cor 
roborating  the  above  statement. 

Letter  from  Robert  Morrell,  M,  D.  to  major  Latour. 

New  Orleans,  Afiril  8,  1815. 
SIR, 

DURING  my  detention  in  the  British  fleet,  the  officers,  both 

naval  and  military,  with  whom  I  had  an  opportunity  to  converse, 
always  estimated  their  force  here  on  the  8th  January,  at  ten  thou 
sand  regular  troops  at  least.  An  incident  occurred  relating  to  this 
subject  on  the  evening  of  the  7th  January,  which  you  may  think 
worth  communicating;  This  day  I  had  accidentally  omitted  to  wear 
uniform:  while  at  supper  with  the  ward-room  officers  of  the  Gor 
gon  frigate,  a  military  officer,  (whose  name  I  disremember)  was 
introduced  as  coming  directly  from  camp;  he  took  a  seat  at  table, 
and  began  to  talk  freely  about  the  situation  of  the  army,  his  busi 
ness  in  the  fleet,  and  addressing  himself  principally  to  me,  he  hav 
ing  taken  up  the  idea  I  was  first  lieutenant  of  the  ship.  After 
various  inquiries  about  the  two  lines,  I  asked  the  number  of  Bri- 

s 


cvxxviii  APPENDIX. 

tish  he  supposed  might  be  on  shore,  he  replied,  when  the  last  re- 
enforcements  would  be  landed  (which  he  had  met  three  days  be 
fore  near  Villere's  canal)  there  would  be,  marines  and  sailors  in 
clusive,  from  thirteen  to  fifteen  thousand  men;  he  was  certain  of 
this,  for  he  had  seen  some  returns  previous  to  his  departure;  this 
was  an  intelligent  officer,  having  the  grade  of  captain,  who  had 
been  sent  by  the  commander-in- chief  to  ascertain  the  quantity  of 
provisions  in  the  fleet. 

1  am,  &c. 

ROBERT  MORRELL,  M.  D. 

United  States  Wavy, 

JQ,  LXYI. 

No.  1. 

London,  Admiralty  Office,  March  9,  1815, 

Despatches  addressed  by  Vice- Admiral  the  honourable  Sir  Alexan 
der  Cochrane,  G.  C.  B.  &c.  to  John  Wilson  Croker,  Esq. 

Armide,  off  Isle  au  Chat,  Dec.  16,  1814. 
SIR — Having  arrived  at  the  anchorage, off  Chandeleur  islands, 
on  the  8th  inst.  captain  Gordon,  of  the  Seahorse,  (which  ship,  with 
the  Armide  and  Sophie,  I  had  sent  on  from  off  Pensacola  to  the  an 
chorage  within  Isle  au  Vaisseau)  reported  to  me  that  two  gun- 
vessels  of  the  enemy,  apparently  large  sized  sloops,  of  very  light 
draught  of  water,  had  fired  at  the  Armide,  upon  her  way  down' 
from  within  the  chain  of  small  islands  that  run  parallel  to  the 
•  coast  from  Mobile  towards  Lac  Borgne,  and  having  afterwards 
joined  three  others,  cruising  in  the  lake,  were  then  visible  from 
his  mast  head. 

The  Bayone  Catalan,  (or  des  Pecheurs)  at  the  head  of  Lac 
Borgne,  being  the  contemplated  point  of  disembarkation,  the  dis 
tance  from  the  inner  anchorage  of  the  frigates  and  troop-ships 
to  the  Bayone  full  sixty  miles,  and  our  principal  means  of  trans 
port  open  boats,  it  became  impossible  that  any  movement  of  the 
troops  could  take  place  till  this  formidable  flotilla  was  either  cap- 
t Hired  or  destroyed. 

Rear-admiral  Malcolm  joined  me  with  the  fleet  upon  the 
1 1th  instant,  and  upon  the  12th  I  placed  the  lanches,  barges,  and 
pinnaces  of  the  squadron,  with  captain  Montressor,  of  the  Manly, 


APPENDIX.  cxxxix 

and  captain  Roberts,  of  the  Meteor,  under  the  command  of  cap 
tain  Lockyer,  of  the  Sophie,  and  sent  them  into  Lac  Borgne,  in 
pursuit  of  the  enemy,  while  the  frigates,  troop-ships,  and  smaller 
vessels,  moved  into  the  inmost  anchorage,  each  vessel  proceeding 
on  until  she  took  the  ground. 

After  an  arduous  row  of  thirty-six  hours,  captain  Lockyer 
had  the  good  fortune  to  close  with  the  flotilla,  which  he  attacked 
with  such  judgment  and  determined  bravery,  that,  notwithstanding 
-f~  their  formidable  force,  their  advantage  of  a  chosen  position,  and 
their  studied  and  deliberate  preparation,  he  succeeded  in  cap 
turing  the  whole  of  the  vessels,  in  so  serviceable  a  state  as  to 
afford  at  once  the  most  essential  aid  to  the  expedition. 

For  the  particulars  of  this  brilliant  affair,  I  refer  their  lord 
ships  to  the  accompanying  copy  of  captain  Lockyer's  letter,  detail 
ing  his  proceedings,  which,  I  am  fully  aware,  their  lordships  will 
duly  appreciate. 

Captain  Lockyer's  conduct  on  this  occasion,  in  which  he  has 
been  severely  wounded,  and  his  long  and  actual  services  as  a  com 
mander,  justly  entitling  him  to  their  lordship's  protection,  and 
finding  it  expedient  to  place  this  flotilla  collectively  upon  the  es 
tablishment  of  a  thirty -six  gun  frigate,  I  have  appointed  him  to 
the  command  thereof. 

Captain  Montressor,  whom  I  have  placed  in  the  command  of 
the  gun-vessels  until  captain  Lockyer's  wounds  will  admit  of  his 
serving,  and  captain  Roberts,  whom  I  have  before  had  occasion 
to  mention  to  their  lordships,  together  with  lieutenants  Tatnell  and 
Roberts,  and  the  officers  mentioned  by  captain  Lockyer,  I  trust 
will  not  fail  to  meet  their  lordship's  notice. 

Our  loss  has  been  severe,  particularly  in  officers:  but,  consi 
dering  that  this  successful  enterprise  has  given  us  the  command 
of  Lac  Borgne,  and  considerably  reduced  our  deficiency  of  trans*- 
ports,  the  effort  has  answered  my  fullest  expectations. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 

ALEXANDER  COCKRANE, 
Vice-admiral  and  Commander-in-chief. 


cxi  APPENDIX. 

letter  from  Nicholas  Lockyer  to  admiral  Cochrane. 

H.  M.  sloop  Sojihic,  Cat  Inland  Roads ^  December  17,  1814. 

SIR — I  beg  leave  to  inform  you,  that  in  pursuance  of  your 
orders  the  boats  of  the  squadron,  which  you  did  me  the  honour  to 
place  under  my  command,  were  formed  into  three  divisions,  (the 
first  headed  by  myself,  the  second  by  captain  Montressor,  of  the 
Manly,  and  the  third  by  captain  Roberts,  of  the  Meteor)  and  pro 
ceeded,  on  the  night  of  the  1 2th  instant,  from  the  frigate's  anchor 
age  in  quest  of  the  enemy's  flotilla. 

After  a  very  tedious  row  of  thirty-six  hours,  during  which 
the  enemy  attempted  to  escape  from  us,  the  wind  fortunately 
obliged  hina  to  anchor  off  St.  Joseph's  island,  and  nearing  him,  on 
the  morning  of  the  14th,  I  discovered  his  force  to  consist  of  five 
gun  vessels  of  the  largest  dimensions,  which  were  moored  in  a 
line  abreast,  with  springs  on  their  cables,  ahd  boarding  nettings 
triced  up,  evidently  prepared  for  our  reception. 

Observing  also,  as  we  approached  the  flotilla,  an  armed 
sloop*  endeavouring  to  join  them,  captain  Roberts,  who  volun 
teered  to-  take  her  with  part  of  his  division,  succeeded  in  cutting 
her  off  and  capturing  her,  without  much  opposition. 

About  ten  o'clock,  having  closed  to,  within  long  gun-shot,  1 
directed  the  boats  to  come  to  a  grapnel,  and  the  people  to  get 
their  breakfasts;  and  as  soon  as  they  had  finished  we  again  took 
to  our  oars,  and  pulling  up  to  the  enemy  against  a  strong  current, 
running  at  the  rate  of  nearly  three  miles  an  hour,  exposed  to  a 
heavy  and  destructive  fire  of  round  and  grape,  about  noon  I  had 
the  satisfaction  of  closing  with  the  commodore  in  the  Seahorse's 
barge. 

After  several  minutes'  obstinate  resistance,  in  which  the 
greater  part  of  the  officers  and  crew  of  this  boat  were  either  kill 
ed  or  wounded,  myself  among  the  latter,  severely,  we  succeeded 
in  boarding,  and  being  seconded  by  the  Seahorse's  first  barge., 
commanded  by  Mr.  White,  midshipman,  and  aided  by  the  boats 
of  the  Tonnant,  commanded  by  lieutenant  Tatnell,  we  soon  car 
ried  her,  and  turned  her  guns  with  good  effect  upon  the  remain- 
in  gf  four. 

*  This  « armed  slaop/  which  reqaired  a  dnrieiofl  of  bargtfi  to  c*j»tiye 
ciqjitoted  one  fonr-pouadef,  and  ciuried  eight  mea. 


APPENDIX.  cxli 

During  this  time  captain  Montressor's  division  was  making 
every  possible  exertion  to  close  with  the  enemy,  and,  with  the  as 
sistance  of  the  other  boats,  then  joined  by  captain  Roberts,  in 
about  five  minutes  we  had  possession  of  the  whole  of  the  flotilla. 

I  have  to  lament  the  loss  of  many  of  my  brave  and  gallant 
companions,  who  gloriously  fell  in  this  attack;  but  considering 
the  great  strength  of  the  enemy's  vessels,  (whose  force  under 
neath  described)  and  their  state  of  preparation,  we  have  by  no 
means  suffered  so  severely  as  might  have  been  expected. 

I  am  under  the  greatest  obligations  to  the  officers,  seamen 
and  marines,  I  had  the  honour  to  command  on  this  occasion,  te 
whose  gallantry  and  exertions  the  service  is  indebted  for  the  capture 
of  these  vessels;  any  comments  of  mine  would  fall  short  of  the 
praise  due  to  them.  I  am  especially  indebted  to  captains  Mon- 
tressor  and  Roberts,  for  their  advice  and  assistance.  They  are 
entitled  to  more  than  I  can  say  of  them,  and  have  my  best  thanks 
for  the  admirable  style  in  which  they  pushed  on  with  their  divi 
sions  to  the  capture  of  the  remainder  of  the  enemy's  flotilla. 

In  an  expedition  of  this  kind,  where  so  many  were  concerned, 
and-  so  much  personal  exertion  and  bravery  was  displayed,  I  find 
it  impossible  to  particularize  every  individual  who  distinguished 
himself,  and  deserves  to  be  well-spoken  of;  but  I  feel  it  my  duty 
to  mention  those  whose  behaviour  fell  immediately  under  my  own 
eye. 

Lieutenant  George  Pratt,  second  of  the  Seahorse,  who  com 
manded  that  ship's  boats,  and  was  in  the  same  boat  with  me,  con 
ducted  himself  to  that  admiration  which  I  cannot  sufficiently  ex 
press.  In  his  attempt  to  board  the  enemy  he  was  several  times 
severely  wounded,  and  at  last  so  dangerously,  that  I  fear  the  ser 
vice  will  be  'deprived  of  this  gallant  and  promising  young  officer. 

I  cannot  omit  to  mention  also  the  conduct  of  lieutenants  Tat- 
nell  and  Roberts,  of  the  Tonnant,  particularly  the  former,  who^ 
after  having  his  boat  sunk  alongside,  got  into  another,  and  gallant 
ly  pushed  on  to  the  attack  of  the  remainder  of  the  flotilla.  Lieu 
tenant  Roberts  was  wounded  in  closing  with  the  enemy. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  fee. 
NICHOLAS  LOCKYER, 


• 


cxlii  APPENDIX. 

No.  1 — Gun-vessel,  1  long  twenty-four-pounder,  4  twelve-pound 
carronades,  and  4  swivels,  with  a  complement  of  45  men; 
captain  Jones,  commodore. 

No.  2 — Gun-vessel,  1  long  thirty-two-pounder,  6  long  six -pound 
ers,  2  five-inch  howitzers,  and  4  swivels,  with  a  complement 
of  45  men;  lieutenant  M'lves  [M'Keever.] 

No.  3 — Gun-vessel,  1  long  twenty-four-pounder,  4  long  six-pound 
ers,  and  4  swivels,  with  a  complement  of  45  men. 

No.  4 — Gun-vessel,  1  long  twenty-four-pounder,  4  twelve-pound 
carronades,  with  a  complement  of  45  men. 

I^o.  5 — Gun-vessel,  1  long  twenty-four-pounder,  4  twelve-pound 
carronades,  with  a  complement  of  45  men. 

No.  6 — Armed  sloop,  1  long  six- pounder,  2  twelve-pound  car 
ronades,  with  a  complement  of  20  men. 

NICHOLAS  LOCKYER,  Captain* 

A  list  of  killed  and  wounded  in  the  boats  of  his  majesty*  s  ships,  at 
the  capture  of  the  American  gun  vessels,  near  New  Orleans. 

Tonnant — 1  able  seaman,  2  ordinary  seamen,  killed;  1  lieutenant, 
4  midshipmen,  4  able  seamen,  4  ordinary  seamen,  2  lands 
men,  3  private  marines,  wounded. 

Norge — 1  quarter-master,  killed;  1  master's-mate,  4  able  seamen, 
3  ordinary  seamen,  1  private  marine,  wounded. 

Bedford — 1  seamen,  killed;  2  lieutenants,  1  master's-mate,  2  sea 
men,  wounded. 

Royal  Oak — 1  seaman,  wounded. 

Ramilies — 4  seamen,  killed;  9  seamen,  wounded. 

Armide — 1  seaman,  killed.  p 

Cydnus —  1  midshipman,  1  seaman,  2  private  marines,  wounded. 

Seahorse — 1  midshipman,  1  volunteer  of  the  first  class,  1  able  sea 
man,  1  ordinary  seaman,  1  landman,  4  private  marines,  killed; 
1  lieutenant  of  marines,  7  able  seamen,  7  ordinary  seamen, 
1  landman,  4  private  marines,  wounded. 

Traave — 1  volunteer  of  the  first  class,  1  captain  of  the  foretop? 
killed;  1  private  marine,  wounded. 

Sophie — 1  captain,  wounded. 

Meteor — 3  seamenj  wounded. 

Belle  Poule — 2  seamen,  wounded. 

G'orgon — 1  master's  mate,  wounded.  , 


APPENDIX.  cxliii 

Total — 3  midshipmen,  1 3  seamen,  1  private  marine,  killed;  1  cap 
tain,  4  lieutenants,  1  lieutenant  of  marines,  3  master's-mates, 
7  midshipmen,  50  seamen,  1 1  marines,  wounded. 

No.  2. 
Letter  from  major -general  Kcane  to  major-general  Packenham. 

Camp  on  the  left  bank  of  the  ^Mississippi,  nine  miles  from  New  Orleans, 

December  26,  1814. 
SIR, 

I  HAVE  the  honour  to  inform  you,  that  between  the  17th  and 
22d  inst.  the  troops  destined  for  the  attack  of  New  Orleans,  were 
collected  at  Isle  aux  Poix,  which  is  at  the  entrance  of  the  Pearl 
river. 

Having  learnt  that  it  was  possible  to  effect  a  landing  at  the 
head  of  the  bayou  Catalan,  which  runs  into  lake  Borgne,  I  direct 
ed  major  Forrest,  assistant  quarter-master-general,  to  have  it  rc- 
connoitered.  Lieutenant  Peddie,  of  that  department,  accompanied 
by  the  hon.  captain  Spenser,  of  the  navy,  ascertained  on  the  night 
of  the  1 8th,  that  boats  could  reach  the  head  of  the  bayou,  from 
which  a  communication  might  be  made  to  the  high  road  on  the 
left  bank  of  the  Mississippi,  leading  to  New  Orleans. 

On  the  morning  of  the  23d,  every  arrangement  being  made 
by  vice-admiral  the  hon.  sir  Alexander  Cochrane,  I  determined 
to  attempt  it.  The  light  brigade,  composed  of  the  85th  and  95th 
regiments,  captain  Lane's  rocketeers,  one  hundred  sappers  and 
miners,  and  the  4th  regiment  as  a  support,  the  whole  under  the 
command  of  colonel  Thornton,  were  placed  in  the  boats,  and  the 
21st,  44th,  and  93d  regiments,  under  colonel  Brooke,  and  a  large 
proportion  of  artillery,  under  major  Munro,  were  embarked  in 
small  vessels. 

At  ten  A.  M.  on  the  22d,  we  sailed  from  Pearl  river,  and 
reached  the  head  of  the  bayou  at  day-light  next  morning.  A  land 
ing  was  immediately  effected  without  any  other  opposition  than 
the  country  presented.  Captain  Blanchard,  of  the  royal  engineers, 
in  the  course  of  two  hours  opened  a  communication  through  seve 
ral  fields  of  reeds,  intersected  by  deep  muddy  ditches,  bordered 
by  a  low  swampy  wood.  Colonel  Thornton  then  advanced  and 
gained  the  high  road,  taking  up  a  position  with  the  right  resting 


cxliv  APPENDIX. 

on  the  road,  and  the  left  on  the  Mississippi.  In  this  situation  I  in 
tended  to  remain  until  the  boats  returned  for  the  rest  of  the  troops 
to  the  vessels,  some  of  which  grounded  at  a  great  distance. 

At  about  eight  o'clock  in  the  evening,  when  the  men,  much 
fatigued  by  the  length  of  time  they  had  been  in  the  boats,  were 
asleep  in  their  bivouac,  a  heavy  flanking  fire  of  round  and  grape 
shot  was  opened  upon  them,  by  a  large  schooner  and  two  gun-ves 
sels,  which  had  dropped  down  the  river  from  the  town,  and  an 
chored  abreast  of  our  fires; — immediate  steps  were  necessary  le 
cover  the  men,  and  colonel  Thornton  in  the  most  prompt  and  ju 
dicious  manner,  placed  his  brigade  under  the  inward  slope  of  the 
bank  of  the  river,  as  did  also  lieutenant-colonel  Brooke,  of  the  4th 
regiment,  behind  some  buildings  which  were  near  that  corps. 
This  movement  was  so  rapid  that  the  troops  suffered  no  more  than 
a  single  casualty. 

The  three-pounders,  being  the  only  guns  up,  the  success  of 
a  few  twelve-pound  rockets,  directed  by  captain  Lane,  was  tried 
against  these  vessels;  but, the  ground  on  which  it  was  necessary  to 
lay  them  not  being  even,  they  were  found  not  to  answer,  and  their 
firing  was  ceased. 

A  most  vigorous  attack  was  then  made  on  the  advanced 
front  and  right  flank  picquets,  the  former  of  the  95th  under  cap 
tain  Hallan,  the  latter  the  85th  under  captain  Schaw;  these  officers 
and  their  respective  picquets,  conducted  themselves  with  firm 
ness,  and  checked  the  enemy  for  a  considerable  time;  but  renew 
ing  their  attack  with  a  large  force,  and  pressing  at  these  points, 
colonel  Thornton  judged  it  necessary  to  move  up  the  remainder 
of  both  corps.  The  85th  regiment  was  commanded  by  brevet  ma 
jor  Gubbins,  whose  conduct  cannot  be  too  much  commended;  on  the 
approach  of  his  regiment  to  the  point  of  attack,  the  enemy,  favour 
ed  by  the  darkness  of  the  night,  concealed  themselves  under  a  high 
fence  which  separated  the  fields,  and  calling  to  the  men  as  friends, 
under  pretence  of  being  part  of  their  own  force,  offered  to  assist 
them  in  getting  over,  which  was  no  sooner  accomplished,  than  the 
S5th  found  itself  in  the  midst  of  very  superior  numbers,  who,  dis 
covering  themselves,  called  on  the  regiment  immediately  to  sur 
render — the  answer  was  an  instantaneous  attack;  a  more  extraor 
dinary  conflict  has  perhaps  never  occurred,  absolutely  hand  to 
hand  both  officers  and  men.  It  terminated  in  the  repulse  of  the 


APPENDIX.  cxlv 

enemy,  with  the  capture  of  thirty  prisoners.  A  similar  finesse  was 
attempted  with  the  95th  regiment,  which  met  the  same  treatment. 

The  enemy  finding  his  reiterated  attacks  were  repulsed  by 
colonel  Thornton,  at  half  past  ten  o'clock  advanced  a  large  column 
against  our  centre;  perceiving  his  intention,  I  directed  colonel 
Stovin  to  order  lieutenant-colonel  Dale,  with  one  hundred  and 
thirty  men  of  the  93d  regiment,  who  had  just  reached  the  camp, 
to  move  forward  and  me  the  bayonet,  holding  the  4th  regiment  in 
hand,  formed  in  line,  as  my  last  reserve.  Colonel  Dale  endea 
voured  to  execute  the  orders,  but  the  crafty  enemy  would  not  meet 
him,  seeing  the  steadiness  of  his  small  body,  gave  it  a  heavy  fire, 
and  quickly  retired.  Colonel  Brooke,  with  four  companies  of  the 
21st  regiment,  fortunately  appeared  at  that  moment  on  our  right 
flank,  and  sufficiently  secured  it  from  further  attack. 

The  enemy  now  determined  on  making  a  last  effort,  and  col 
lecting  the  whole  of  his  force,  formed  an  extensive  line,  and  moved 
directly  against  the  light  brigade.  At  first  this  line  drove  in  all 
the  advanced  posts,  but  colonel  Thornton,  whose  noble  exertions 
had  guaranteed  all  former  success,  was  at  hand;  he  rallied  his 
brave  comrades  round  him,  and  moving  forward  with  a  firm  de 
termination  of  charging,  appalled  the  enemy,  who,  from  the  les 
son  he  had  received  on  the  same  ground  in  the  early  part  of  the 
evening,  thought  it  prudent  to  retire,  and  did  not  again  dare  to  ad 
vance.  It  was  now  twelve  o'clock,  and  the  firing  ceased  on  both  sides. 

From  the  best  information  I  can  obtain,  the  enemy's  force 
amounted  to  five  thousand  men,  and  was  commanded  by  major- 
general  Jackson;  judging  from  the  number  left  on  the  field,  his 
loss  must  have  been  severe.  I  now  beg  leave  to  enclose  a  list  of 
our  casualties  on  that  night,  and  have  only  to  hope  it  will  appear 
to  you  that  every  officer  and  soldier  on  shore  did  his  duty. 

To  sir  Alexander  Cochrane  I  feel  particularly  obliged  for 
his  very  friendly  counsel  and  ready  compliance  with  every  wish  I 
expressed  respecting  the  service  or  welfare  of  the  troops. 

To  rear-admiral  Malcom,  and  the  several  captains  employed 
in  the  landing,  8cc.  I  confess  the  greatest  obligation.  I  must  leave 
it  to  the  vice-admiral  to  do  them  the  justice  they  so  much  deserve, 
for  I  cannot  find  words  to  express  the  exertions  made  by  every 
branch  of  the  navy,  since  the  period  of  our  arrival  on  this  const. 


cxlvi  APPENDIX. 

In  the  attack  made  on  the  centre,  lieutenant-colonel 
assistant  adjutant-general,  received  a  severe  wound,  which  de 
prived  me  of  his  able  services;  to  him  and  major  Forrest,  assist 
ant  quarter-master-general,  I  feel  greatly  indebted;  they  are  both 
officers  of  great  merit;  colonel  Brooke  is  entitled  to  every  praise 
for  securing  our  right  flank. 

To  colonel  Thornton  I  feel  particularly  grateful;  his  conduct 
on  the  night  of  the  23d,  I  shall  ever  admire  and  honour.  He  head 
ed  his  brigade  in  the  most  spirited  manner,  and  afforded  it  a  bril 
liant  example  of  active  courage  and  cool  determination. 

I  have  every  reason  to  be  satisfied  with  lieutenant-colonel 
Brooke,  commanding  the  4th  regiment;  as  also  with  major  Mit 
chell,  of  the  95th,  who  was  unfortunately  taken  prisoner  at  the 
close  of  the  affair. 

The  exertions  of  major  Monro  of  the  royal  artillery,  were  un 
remitting;  to  him,  and  the  officers  under  his  command,  I  feel  every 
obligation.  The  assistance  given  by  captain  Blanchard,  and  the 
officers  of  the  royal  engineers,  was  most  conspicuous,  and  entitle 
them  to  my  best  thanks. 

Brevet  major  Hooper,  acting  deputy-assistant  adjutant-gene 
ral,  was  attached  to  the  light  brigade.  Colonel  Thornton  states, 
that  he  derived  the  greatest  benefit  from  his  activity,  zeal,  and 
judgment,  I  regret  to  have  to  add,  that  he  was  very  severely 
wounded,  and  had  his  leg  amputated  in  the  course  of  the  night. 

The  indefatigable  zeal  and  intelligence  displayed  by  lieute 
nants  Peddie  and  Evans,  of  the  quarter-master-general's  depart* 
ment,  entitle  them  to  the  most  favourable  consideration. 

Assistant  commissary-general  Wemyss's  arrangements  were 
satisfactory,  and  deputy-inspector  Thompson  claims  my  best  ac 
knowledgments,  for  the  care  and  attention  shown  the  wounded,  the 
whole  of  whom  were  collected,  dressed?  and  comfortably  lodged 
before  two  in  the  morning. 

Major  Mills,  of  the  14th  light  dragoons,  accompanied  me  on 
shore;  from  him,  captain  Persse,  my  aid  de-camp,  and  the  hon. 
lieutenant  Curzon,  naval  aid-de-camp,  I  received  every  assistance. 

Trusting  that  the  steps  I  pursued,  while  in  command,  will 
meet  your  approbation, 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &.c. 
(Signed)  JOHN  KEANE,  major- general. 


APPENDIX.  cxlvii 


No.  3. 

Extract  from  the  Journal  of  the  movements  of  the  army  cjnjdoyed 
on  the  southern  coast  of  North  America. 

ON  the  evening  of  the  25th  December,  1814,  major-general 
sir  E.  Pakenham  arrived  and  assumed  the  command  of  the  army. 

On  the  26th  at  daylight  our  batteries  opened  on  the  enemy's 
schooner,  then  lying  on  the  opposite  bank  of  the  river,  and  which 
had  occasionally  cannonaded  our  line  the  preceding  days.  The 
effect  was  such  as  to  set  her  on  fire,  and  at  9  A.  M.  she  blew  up. 
A  ship  armed  with  sixteen  long  twenty-four  pounders,  which 
came  down  the  day  before  to  a  position  abreast  of  our  advance,  no 
sooner  saw  the  fate  of  the  schooner  than  she  got  under  way  and 
ran  up  the  river. 

On  the  27th  at  daylight  the  troops  moved  forward  in  two 
columns,  driving  in  the  enemy's  pickets  to  within  six  miles  of  the 
town,  where  their  main  body  was  discovered  strongly  posted  be 
hind  a  canal,  having  a  breastwork  in  their  front,  the  extent  from 
right  to  left  being  about  one  thousand  yards;  their  right  rested  on 
the  Mississippi,  and  was  further  protected  by  the  armed  ship 
moored  in  a  position  to  enfilade  our  columns  as  they  advanced — 
their  left  touched  the  wood.  This  wood  extends  in  a  parallel  di 
rection  with  the  river,  and  is,  in  general,  distant  from  it  one  thou 
sand  to  fifteen  hundred  yards.  The  intermediate  space  is  inter 
sected  by  strong  horizontal  railings  and  a  wet  ditch  or  drain,  and 
is  principally  planted  with  sugar-canes.  Considerable  houses, 
with  large  out-buildings  and  negro  huts  attached,  are  scattered  at 
irregular  distances  along  this  tract. 

The  left  column,  under  major-general  Keane,  advanced  along 
the  main  road  to  within  about  eight  hundred  yards  of  the  enemy's 
right,  when  he  opened  from  two  guns  upon  the  head  of  our  co 
lumn;  upon  this  it  was  moved  off  the  road  to  the  right,  under  co 
ver  of  some  houses.  The  ship  at  the  same  time  opened  an  enfi- 
lading  fire  upon  our  left,  and  kept  up  an  incessant  cannonade  for 
above  an  hour.  The  columns  were  now  deployed,  and  the  line 
ordered  to  lie  down,  our  right  pickets  touching  the  wood.  The 
enemy  cannonaded  us  from  four  guns  in  his  line,  and  frara  the  ship 


cxlviii  APPENDIX. 

during  the  day,  but  with  little  effect.  In  the  evening  the  troops 
were  retired  beyond  reach  of  the  enemy's  guns,  and  directed  to 
hut  themselves.  Ground  was  also  marked  out  for  a  redoubt  on 
our  flank,  and  the  guns  on  our  left  covered  them  from  the  enemy's 
fire. 

From  the  28th  to  the  31st  every  exertion  was  made  to  get 
up  from  the  ships  ten  eighteen-pound  raid  four  twenty-four-pound 
carronades,  with  the  ammunition  and  stores.  These  were  brought 
up  the  canal  in  boats  to  within  a  quarter  of  a  mile  of  the  main 
road,  and  thence  transported  on  carriages  of  the  country  or  our 
own  limbers,  by  the  seamen,  with  incredible  labour.  The  wea 
ther  was  fortunately  fair,  and  the  road  consequently  good. 

The  enemy,  during  this  period,  established  two  batteries  of 
one  gun  each  on  the  opposite  bank  of  the  river,  and  occasionally 
threw  shot  into  our  camp  with  some  effect. 

Four  eighteen-pounclers  were  placed  in  a  battery  formed 
with  hogsheads  of  sugar,  on  the  main  road,  to  fire  upon  the  ship 
if  she  dropped  down  the  river. 

Preparations  were  also  made  to  establish  batteries,  one  ot 
six  eighteen-pounclers  to  break  the  enemy's  line,  and  the  four 
twenty-four-pound  carronades,  and  the  field-gun  and  howitzers 
were  to  keep  the  fire  of  the  enemy  under,  whilst  the  troops  were 
to  be  moved  forward  to  storm  the  works  so  soou  as  a  practicable 
breach  was  effected. 

On  the  night  of  the  31st  December  working  parties  were 
employed  in  throwing  up  the  batteries  and  getting  in  the  guns. 
In  this  they  were  most  materially  assisted  by  the  seamen  under 
captain  sir  Thomas  Troubridge:  before  daylight  the  whole  was 
completed,  and  the  batteries  ready  to  open. 

The  morning  of  the  1st  January  was  foggy,  arid  objects  could 
not  be  discerned  at  any  distance  until  nine  o'clock,  when  our  bat 
teries  opened.  The  enemy  soon  returned  our  fire,  and  a  mutual 
cannonade  took  place: — Our  batteries  made  little  impression  upon 
the  enemy's  parapet.  The  order  for  the  assault  was  therefore 
not  carried  into  effect.  The  troops  remained  in  this  advanced 
position,  and  orders  were  given  to  retire  the  guns  in  the  night. 
The  evening  changed  to  wet,  and  the  ground  became  in  conse 
quence  so  deep,  thai  it  required  the  exertions  of  the  whole  army 


APPENDIX.  cxlix 

as  a  working  party,  aided  by  the  seamen,  to  retire  the  guns  a 
short  distance  before  daylight.  The  army  then  fell  back  to  the 
position  it  occupied  on  the  3 1  st. 

C.  R.  FORREST,  A.  Q.  R.  M.  G. 


No.  4. 

DESPATCH  FROM  GKNERAL  LAMBERT  TO  LORD  BATHURST. 

Camfiin  front  of  the  enemy"  s  line  before  New  Orleans^ 

January  10, 1815. 
MY  LORD, 

IT  becomes  my  duty  to  lay  before  your  lordship  the  proceed 
ings  of  the  force  lately  employed  on  the  coast  of  Louisiana,  un 
der  the  command  of  major-general  sir  E.  M.  Pakenham,  K.  B. 
and  acting  in  concert  with  vice-admiral  the  honourable  sir  A. 
Cochrane,  K.  13. 

The  report  which  I  enclose  from  major-general  Keane  will 
put  your  lordship  in  possession  of  the  occurrences  which  took 
place  until  the  arrival  of  major-general  the  hon.  sir  E.  M.  Paken 
ham,  to  assume  the  command:  from  that  period  I  send  an  extract 
of  the  journal  of  major  Forrest,  assistant-quarter-master-general, 
up  to  the  time  of  joining  the  troops  (which  sailed  on  the  26th 
October  last  under  my  command)  and  which  was  on  the  6th  Ja 
nuary;  and  from  that  period  I  shall  detail,  as  well  as  I  am  able, 
the  subsequent  events. 

I  found  the  army  in  position,  in  a  flat  country,  with  the 
Mississippi  on  its  left,  and  a  thick  extensive  wood  on  its  right, 
and  open  to  its  front,  from  which  the  enemy's  line  was  quite  dis 
tinguishable. 

It  seems  sir  E.  Pakenham  had  waited  for  the  arrival  of  the 
fusileers  and  the  43d  regiment,  in  order  to  make  a  general  attack 
upon  the  enemy's  line;  and  on  the  8th  the  army  was  formed  for 
that  object. 

In  order  to  give  your  lordship  as  clear  a  view  as  I  can,  I 
shall  state  the  position  of  the  enemy.  On  the  left  bank  of  the  ri 
ver  it  was  simply  a  straight  line  of  a  front  of  about  one  thousand 
yards,  with  a  parapet,  the  right  resting  on  the  river  and  the  left 
on  a  wood,  which  had  been  rendered  impracticable  for  any  body 


or  APPENDIX. 

of  troops  to  pass.  This  line  was  strengthened  by  flank  works, 
and  had  a  canal  of  four  feet  deep,  but  not  always  of  an  equal 
width;  it  was  supposed  to  narrow  towards  their  left.  About  eight 
heavy  guns  were  in  position  on  this  line.  The  Mississippi  is  here 
about  eight  hundred  yards  wide,  and  they  had  on  the  right  bank  a 
heavy  battery  of  twelve  guns,  which  enfiladed  the  whole  front  of 
the  position  on  the  left  bank. 

Preparations  were  made  on  our  side  with  very  considerable 
labour,  to  clear  out  and  widen  a  canal  that  communicated  with  a 
stream  by  which  the  boats  had  passed  up  to  the  place  of  disem 
barkation,  to  open  it  into  the  Mississippi,  by  which  means  troops 
could  be  got  over  to  the  right  bank,  and  the  co-operation  of  arm 
ed  boats  would  be  secured. 

The  disposition  for  the  attack  was  as  follows:  a  corps  con 
sisting  of  the  85th  light  infantry,  two  hundred  seamen,  and  four 
hundred  marines,  the  5th  West-India  regiment,  and  four  pieces 
of  artillery,  under  the  command  of  colonel  Thornton  of  the  85th, 
was  to  pass  over  during  the  night,  and  move  along  the  right  bank 
towards  New  Orleans,  clearing  its  front,  until  it  reached  the  flank 
ing  battery  of  the  enemy  on  that  side,  which  it  had  orders  to  carry. 

The  assailing  of  the  enemy's  works  in  front  of  us  was  to  be 
made  by  the  brigade  composed  of  the  4th,  2 1  st  and  44th,  under 
major-general  Gibbs,  and  the  3d  brigade,  consisting  of  the  93d, 
two  companies  of  the  95th,  and  two  companies  of  the  fusileers, 
and  the  43d,  under  major-general  Keane.  Some  black  troops 
were  destined  to  skirmish  in  the  wood  on  the  right;— the  princi 
pal  attack  to  be  made  by  major-general  Gibbs; — the  first  brigade 
and  the  43d  formed  the  reserve; — the  attacking  columns  were  to  be 
provided  with  staling-laddcrs  and  rafts; — the  whole  to  be  at  their 
stations  by  daylight.  An  advanced  battery  in  our  front  of  six 
eighteen-pounders  was  thrown  up  during  the  night,  about  eight 
hundred  yards  from  the  enemy's  line.  The  attack  was  to  be  made 
at  the  earliest  hour.  Unlocked  for  difficulties,  increased  by  the 
falling  of  the  river,  occasioned  considerable  delay  in  the  entrance 
of  the  armed  boats;  and  those  destined  to  land  colonel  Thornton's 
corps,  by  which  four  or  five  hours  were  lost,  and  it  was  not  until 
half  past  five  in  the  morning  that  the  first  division,  consisting  of 
five  hundred  men,  were  over.  The  ensemble  of  the  general  move  • 


APPENDIX.  elf 

iivent  was  lost,  and  in  a  point  which  was  of  the  last  importance  to 
the  attack  of  the  left  bank  of  the  river,  although  colonel  Thorn 
ton,  as  your  lordship  will  see  by  his  report,  which  I  enclose,  ably 
executed  in  every  particular  his  instructions,  and  fully  justified 
the  confidence  the  commander  of  the  forces  placed  in  his  abilities. 
The  delay  attending  that  corps  occasioned  some  on  the  left  bank, 
and  the  attack  did  not  take  place  till  the  columns  were  discerni 
ble  from  the  enemy's  line  at  more  than  two  hundred  yards  dis 
tance.  As  they  advanced  a  continued  and  most  galling  fire  was 
opened  from  every  part  of  their  line,  and  from  the  battery  on  the- 
right  bank. 

The  brave  commander  of  the  forces,  who  never  in  his  life 
could  refrain  from  being  at  the  post  of  honour,  and  sharing  the 
danger  to  which  the  troops  were  exposed,  as  soon  as  from  his 
station  he  had  made  the  signal  for  the  troops  to  advance,  gallop 
ed  on  to  the  front  to  animate  them  by  his  presence,  and  he  was 
seen  with  his  hat  off  encouraging  them  on  the  crest  of  the  glacis; 
it  was  there  (almost  at  the  same  time)  that  he  received  two 
wounds,  one  in  his  knee,  and  another,  which  was  almost  instantly 
fatal,  in  his  body:  he  fell  in  the  arms  of  major  M'Dougall,  aid-de- 
camp.  The  effect  of  this  in  the  sight  of  the  troops,  together  with 
major-general  Gibbs  and  major-general  Keane  being  both  borne 
off  wounded  at  the  same  time,  with  many  other  commanding  offi 
cers,  and  further,  the  preparations  made  to  aid  in  crossing  the 
ditch  not  being  so  forward  as  they  ought  to  have  been,  from,  per 
haps,  the  men  being  wounded  who  were  carrying  them,  caused  a 
wavering  in  the  column,  which  in  such  a  situation  became  irrepa 
rable;  and  as  I  advanced  with  the  reserve,  at  about  two  hundred 
and  fifty  yards  from  the  line,  I  had  the  mortification  to  observe  the 
whole  falling  back  upon  me  in  the  greatest  confusion. 

In  this  situation,  finding  that  there  had  been  no  impression 
made, — that  though  many  men  had  reached  the  ditch,  and  were 
either  drowned  or  obliged  to  surrender,  and  that  it  was  impossible 
to  restore  order  in  the  regiments  where  they  were, — I  placed  the 
reserve  in  position,*  until  I  could  obtain  such  information  as  to  de- 

*  This  position  was  a  supine  one.  The  reserve,  and  all  those  of  the 
advanced  columns,  who  escaped  slaughter,  were  ordered  to  crouch  down  in 
the  stubble,  where  they  lay  flat  upon  their  faces  till  night.  This  new  evolu 
tion  wns  executed  in  orcter  to  avoid  the  fire  of  our  artillery, 


'clii  APPENDIX. 

termine  me  how  to  act  to  the  best  of  my  judgment,  and  whether 
or  not  I  should  resume  the  attack,  and  if  so,  I  felt  it  could  be  done 
only  by  the  reserve.  The  confidence  I  have  in  the  corps  compo 
sing  it  would  have  encouraged  me  greatly,  though  not  without 
loss,  which  might  have  made  the  attempt  of  serious  consequence, 
as  I  know  it  was  the  opinion  of  the  late  distinguished  commander 
of  the  forces,  that  the  carrying  of  the  first  line  would  not  be  the 
least  arduous  service.  After  making  the  best  reflections  I  was 
capable  of,  I  kept  the  ground  the  troops  then  held,  and  went  to 
meet,  vice-admiral  sir  A.  Cochrane,  and  to  tell  him  that  under  all 
the  circumstances,  I  did  not  think  it  proper  to  renew  the  attack 
on  that  day.  At  about  ten  o'clock  I  learnt  of  the  success  of  colo 
nel  Thornton's  corps  on  the  right  bank.  I  sent  the  commanding 
officer  of  the  artillery,  colonel  Dickson,  to  examine  the  situation 
of  the  battery,  and  report  if  it  was  tenable;  but  informing  me  that 
he  did  not  think  it  could  be  held  with  security  by  a  smaller  corps 
than  two  thousand  men,  I  consequently  ordered  lieutenant-colonel 
Gubbins,  on  whom  the  command  had  devolved  (colonel  Thornton 
being  wounded)  to  retire. 

The  army  remained  in  position  until  night,  in  order  to  gain 
time  to  destroy  the  eighteen-pounder  battery  we  had  constructed 
the  preceding  night  in  advance,  I  then  gave  orders  for  the  troops 
to  resume  the  ground  they  had  occupied  previous  to  the  attack. 

Our  loss  has  been  very  severe,  but  I  trust  it  will  not  be  con 
sidered,  notwithstanding  the  failure,  that  this  army  has  suffered  the 
military  character  to  be  tarnished.  I  am  satisfied,  had  I  thought 
it  right  to  renew  the  attack,  that  the  troops  would  have  advanced 
with  cheerfulness.  •  The  services  of  both  army  and  navy,  since 
their  landing  on  this  coast,  have  been  arduous  beyond  any  thing  I 
have  ever  witnessed,  and  difficulties  have  been  got  over  with  an 
assiduity  and  perseverance  beyond  all  example  by  all  ranks,  and 
the  most  hearty  co-operation  has  existed  between  the  two  services. 

It  is  not  necessary  for  me  to  expatiate  to  you  upon  the  loss 
the  army  has  sustained  in  major-general  the  hon.  sir  E.  Paken- 
ham,  commander-in-chief  of  this  force,  nor  could  I  in  adequate 
terms.  .  His  services  and  merits  are  so  well  known,  that  I  have 
only,  in  common  with  the  whole  army,  to  express  my  sincere  re 
gret,  and  which  may  be  supposed  at  present  to  come  peculiarly 
home  to  me. 


APPENDIX,  cliii 

Major-general  Gibbs,  who  died  of  his  wounds  the  following 
day,  and  major-general  Keane,  who  were  both  carried  off  the  field 
within  twenty  yards  of  the  glacis,  at  the  head  of  their  brigades, 
sufficiently  speak  at  such  a  moment  how  they  were  conducting 
themselves.  I  am  happy  to  say  major-general  Keane  is  doing 
well. 

Captain  Wylly,  of  the  fusileers,  military  secretary  of  the 
late  commander  of  the  forces,  will  have  the  honour  of  delivering 
to  your  lordship  these  despatches.  Knowing  how  much  he  en 
joyed  his  esteem,  and  was  in  his  confidence  from  a  long  experi 
ence  of  his  talents,  I  feel  I  cannot  do  less  than  pay  this  tribute  to 
what  I  conceive  would  be  the  wishes  of  his  late  general,  and  to 
recommend  him  strongly  to  your  lordship's  protection. 

I  am,  Sec. 
(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT. 

Return  of  casualties  on  the  %th  January,  1815. 

General  staff — 1  captain,  1  lieutenant;  wounded  one  major-general* 

Royal  artillery — 5  rank  and  file  killed;   10  rank  and  file  wounded. 

Royal  engineers,  sappers  and  miners — 3  rank  and  file  wounded. 

4th  foot — 1  ensign,  2  serjeants,  39  rank  and  file  killed;  1  lieute 
nant-colonel,  1  major,  5  captains,  1 1  lieutenants,  4  ensigns,  1 
staff,  9  serjeants,  222  rank  and  file  wounded;  1  lieutenant,  1 
serjeant,  53  rank  and  file  missing. 

7th  foot — 1  major,  1  captain,  1  serjeant,  38  rank  and  file  killed;  2 
captains,  2  lieutenants,  2  serjeants,  47  rank  and  file  wounded. 

21st  foot — 1  major,  1  captain,  1  lieutenant,  2  serjeants,  65  rank 
and  file  killed;  1  lieutenant-colonel,  1  major,  2  lieutenants,  6 
serjeants,  1  drummer,  144  rank  and  file  wounded;  2  captains, 
7  lieutenants,  8  serjeants,  2  drummers,  2 1 7  rank  and  file  missing- 

43d  foot — 2  serjeants,  1  drummer,  8  rank  and  file  killed;  2  lieute 
nants,  3  serjeants,  3  drummers,  34  rank  and  file  wounded;  \ 
captain,  5  rank  and  file  missing. 

44th  foot — 1  lieutenant,  1  ensign,  1  serjeant,  32  rank  and  file  kil 
led;  1  captain,  5  lieutenants,  3  ensigns,  5  serjeants,  149  rank 
and  file  wounded;  1  lieutenant,  2  serjeants,  1  drummer,  75  rank 
and  file  missing, 

f 


cifc  APPENDIX. 

85th  foot— 2  rank  and  file  killed;  1  lieutenant-colonel,  1  lieutenant^ 
3  Serjeants,  2  drummers,  34  rank  and  file  wounded;  1  rank  and 
file  missing. 

93d  foot — 1.  lieutenant-colonel,  2  captains,  2  Serjeants,  58  rank 
and  file  killed;  4  captains,  5  lieutenants,  17  Serjeants,  3 
drummers,  348  rank  and  file  wounded;  3  lieutenants,  2  ser- 
jeants,  1  drummer,  99  rank  and  file  missing. 

95th  foot — 1  serjeant,  10  rank  and  file  killed;  2  captains,  5  lieute 
nants,  5  Serjeants,  89  rank  and  file  wounded. 

Royal  marines — 2  rank  and  file  killed;  1  captain,  2  lieutenants,  1 
serjeant,  12  rank  and  file  wounded. 

Royal  navy — 2  seamen  killed;  1  captain,  18  seamen  wounded. 

1st  West- India  regiment— 5  rank  and  file  killed;  1  captain,  2  lieu 
tenants,  2  ensigns,  2  serjcants,  16  rank  and  file  wounded;  1  rank 
and  file  missing. 

5th  West-India  regiment — 1  serjeant  wounded. 

Total  loss— 1  major-general,  1  lieutenant-colonel,  2  majors,  5  cap 
tains,  2  lieutenants,  2  ensigns,  11  Serjeants,  1  drummer,  266 
rank  and  file  killed;  2  major-generals,  3  lieutenant-colonels,  2 
majors,  18  captains,  38  lieutenants,  9  ensigns,  1  staff,  54  ser- 
jeants,  9*  drummers,  1,126  rank  and  file  wounded;  3  captains, 
12  lieutenants,  13  Serjeants,  4  drummers,  452  rank  and  file 
missing. 

Na?nes  of  officers  killed,  wounded  and  missing-. 

KILLED. 

G.eneral  staff — Major-general  the  honourable  sir  Edward  Paken- 
ham,  K.  B.  commander  of  the  forces;  captain  Thomas  Wilkin 
son,  85th  regiment,  major  of  brigade. 

4th  foot — Ensign  William  Crowe. 

7th  foot — Major  George  King,  captain  George  Henry. 

21st  foot — 'Major  John  Anthony  Whittaker,  captain  Robert  Ren- 
ny  (lieutenant  colonel,)  and  lieutenant  Donald  McDonald. 

44th  foot-— Lieutenant  Rowland  Davies,  ensign  M.  M'Loskey. 

93d  foot — Lieutenant-colonel  Robert  Dale,  captain  Thomas  Hick- 
ins,  and  captain  Alexander  Mairhead. 


APPENDIX.  ci-v 

WOUNDED. 

General  staff. — Major-general  Gibbs,  severely  (since  dead;)  ma 
jor-general  Keane,  severely;  captain  Henry  Thomas  Shaw,  4th 
foot  (brigade-major)  slightly;  lieutenant  Delacy  Evans  (3d  dra 
goons,  deputy-assistant-quarter-master-general)  severely. 

4th  foot — lieutenant-colonel  Francis  Brooke,  slightly;  major  A.  D. 
Faunce  (lieutenant-colonel)  severely;  captain  J.  Williamson 
(major)  severely;  captain  T.  Jones  (lieutenant-colonel)  severely, 
(since  dead;)  captain  J.  W.  Fletcher,  severely;  captain  R.  Er- 
skine  severely;  captain  D.  S.  Craig,  slightly;  lieutenants  Ellis* 
Parnal,  Hopkins,  and  J.  Salvin,  slightly;  lieutenants  W.  H. 
Brook,  B.  Martin,  And  G.  Richardson,  severely;  lieutenant  P. 
Boulby  and  G.  H.  Hearn,  slightly;  lieutenants  W.  Squire,  C. 
H.  Farrington,  J.  Marshal],  and  H.  Andrews,  severely;  ensign 
Alexander  Gerard,  slightly;  ensign  Thomas  Benwell,  severely; 
ensigns  J.  S.  Fernandaz,  and  E.  Newton,  slightly;  lieutenant 
and  adjutant  W.  Richardson,  slightly. 

7th  foot — captain  J.  J.  A.  Mullins,  slightly;  captain  W.  E.  Page, 
severely;  lieutenant  M.Higgins,  severely;  lieutenant  C.Lorentz, 
slightly. 

31st  foot-— Lieutenant-colonel  W.  Patterson  (colonel)  severely 
(not  dangerously;)  major  A.  J.  Ross,  severely;  lieutenant  J. 
Waters,  severely;  second-lieutenant  A.  Geddes,  severely. 

43d  foot — lieutenant  J.  Meyricke,  severely  (left  leg  amputated;) 
lieutenant  D  Campbell,  severely. 

44th  foot — Captain  H.  Debbieg  (lieutenant-colonel)  slightly;  lieu 
tenant  W.  Maclean,  slightly;  lieutenants  R.  Smith,  H.  Brush, 
R.  Phelan,  and  W.  Jones,  severely;  ensigns  J.  White,  B.  L. 
Hayden,  and  J.  Donaldson,  severely. 

S5th  foot — Lieutenant-colonel  W.  Thornton  (colonel)  severely, 
(not  dangerously;)  lieutenant  B.  C.  Urquhart,  severely  (not 
dangerously.) 

93d  foot — captains  R.  Ryan,  P.  O.  K.  Boulger,  A.  M'Kenzie,  and 
H.  Ellis,  severely;  lieutenants  H.  H.  M'Lean,  R.  Spark,  and  D. 
Macpherson,  slightly;  C.  Gordon,  and  J.  Hay,  severely. 

95th  foot — Captain  J.  Travers,  severely;  captain  N.  Travers. 
slightly;  lieutenants  J.  Reynolds,  sir  J.  Ribton,  J.  Gosset,  W. 
Blackhotise,  and  Barker,  severely. 


APPENDIX. 

Royal  marines  —  Captain  G.  Elliott,  slightly;  lieutenants  H.  Elliott, 

and  C.  Morgan,  slightly. 
1st  West-India  regiment  —  Captain   Isles,    severely;   lieutenants 

M'Donald  and  Morgan,  severely;  ensign  Millar,  slightly;  ensign 

Pilkington,  severely. 
Royal  navy  —  Captain  Money,  of  II.  M.  ship  Trave,  severely^  mid 

shipman  M.  Woolcombe,  Tonnant,  severely. 
93d  foot—  Volunteer  John  Wilson,  slightly. 

MISSING. 

4th  foot  —  Lieutenant  E.  Field,  severely  wounded  and  taken  prisoner, 

21st  foot—  Captain  J.  M'Haffie  (major;)  captain  A.  Kidd;  lieute 
nants  J.  Stewart  and  A.  Armstrong,  taken  prisoners;  lieute 
nants  J.  Brady,  wounded  and  taken  prisoner;  lieutenant  J.  Lea- 
vock,  taken  prisoner;  lieutenant  R.  Carr,  wounded  and  taken 
prisoner;  lieutenant  J.  S.  M.  Fonhlangue,  taken  prisoner;  second- 
lieutenant  P.  Quin,  wounded  and  taken  prisoner. 

43d  foot  —  Captain  II.  Simpson,  severely  wounded  and  taken  pri 
soner. 

44th  foot—  -Lieutenant  W.  Knight. 

93d  foot  —  Lieutenants  G.  Munro,  J.  M'Donald  and  Graves,  se 
verely  wounded;  volunteer  B.  Johnson. 

FRED.  STOVEN,  Lieut.  Col.  Deft.  Adjt.  Gen, 

TRETURN  OF  CASUALTIES   BETWEEN  THE  9th  AND  26tll  JANUARY, 

1815. 

43d  foot  —  1  rank  and  file  killed;  1  lieutenant,  (E.  D'Arcy,  severe 
ly,  both  legs  amputated,)   1  serjeant,  2  rank  and  file  wounded. 
#5th  foot  —  1  rank  and  file  wounded. 
Total  —  1  rank  and  file  killed;   1  lieutenant,  1  serjeant,  3  rank  and 

file  wounded. 

FRED.  STOVE  j*,  Lieut.  Col.  Dep,  Adjt. 


RETURN  OF  THE  ORDNANCE 

Taken  from  the  enemy  by  a  detachment  of  the  army  acting  on 
the  right  bank  of  the  Mississippi,  under  the  command  of  colonel 

Thornton. 

Redoubt,  Right  Bank  of  the  Mississippi,  Jan.  8/A,  1815. 

1  brass  ten-inch  howitzer,  2  brass  four-pounder  field-pieces, 
3  twenty-four-pounders,  3  twelve-pounders,  6  nine-pounders,  1 
twelve-pounder  carronade,  not  mounted. 


APPENDIX.  clvU 

On  the  howitzer  is  inscribed,  "  Taken  at  the  surrender  of 
York-Town,  1781.'* 

J.  MITCHELL,  Major,  Cafit.  Royal  Art. 

No.  5. 

letter  from  lieutenant-colonel  Thornton  to  major-general  PakeUr 

ham. 

Redoubt  on  the  right  bank  of  the  Mississippi,  January  8,  1815. 
SIR, 

J  LOSE  no  time  in  reporting  to  you  the  success  of  the  troops 
which  you  were  yesterday  pleased  to  place  under  my  orders,  with 
the  view  of  attacking  the  enemy's  redoubt  and  position  on  this 
side  of  the  river. 

It  is  within  your  own  knowledge,  that  the  difficulty  had  been 
found  so  extremely  great  of  dragging  the  boats  through  the  canal, 
which  had  been  lately  cut  with  so  much  labour,  to  the  Mississippi, 
that,  notwithstanding  every  possible  exertion  for  the  purpose,  we 
were  unable  to  proceed  across  the  river  until  eight  hours  after  the 
time  appointed,  and  even  then,  with  only  a  third  part  of  the  force 
which  you  had  allotted  for  the  service. 

The  current  wras  so  strong,  and  the  difficulty,  in  consequence 
of  keeping  the  boats  together,  so  great,  that  we  only  reached  this 
side  of  the  river  at  day-break,  and  by  the  time  the  troops  were 
disembarked,  which  was  effected  without  any  molestation  from  the 
enemy,  I  perceived  by  the  flashes  of  the  guns  that  your  attack  had 
already  commenced. 

This  circumstance  made  me  extremely  anxious  to  move  for 
ward,  to  prevent  ihe  destructive  enfilading  fire,  which  would,  of 
course,  be  opened  on  your  columns  from  the  enemy's  batteries  on 
this  side;  and  I  proceeded  with  the  greatest  possible  expedition, 
strengthened  and  secured  on  my  right  flank  by  three  gun-boats, 
under  captain  Roberts  of  the  navy,  whose  zeal  and  exertions  on 
this  occasion  were  as  unremitted  as  his  arrangements  in  embark 
ing  the  troops,  and  in  keeping  the  boats  together  in  crossing  the 
river,  were  excellent. 

The  enemy  made  no  opposition  to  our  advance,  until  we 
reached  a  piquet,  posted  behind  a  bridge,  at  about  five  hundred 
paces  from  the  house  in  the  Orange  Grove,  and  secured  by  a  small 
work,  apparently  just  thrown  up. 


clviii  APPENDIX. 

This  picquet  was  very  soon  forced  and  driven  in  by  a  division 
of  the  85th  regiment,  under  captain  Schaw,  of  that  regiment,  form 
ing  the  advanced-guard,  and  whose  mode  of  attack  for  the  purpose 
was  prompt  and  judicious  to  a  degree. 

Upon  my  arrival  at  the  Orange  Grove,  I  had  an  opportunity 
of  reconnoitring,  at  about  seven  hundred  yards,  the  enemy's  po 
sition,  which  I  found  to  be  a  very  formidable  redoubt  on  the  bank 
of  the  river,  with  the  right  flank  secured  by  an  intrenchment  ex 
tending  back  to  a  thick  wood,  and  its  line  protected  by  an  inces 
sant  fire  of  grape.  Under  such  circumstances  it  seemed  to  me  to 
afford  the  best  prospect  of  success,  to  endeavour  to  turn  his  right 
at  the  wood;  and  I  accordingly  detached  two  divisions  of  the  8Sth 
regiment,  under  brevet  lieutenant-colonel  Gubbins,  to  effect  that 
object;  which  he  accomplished  with  his  usual  zeal  and  judgment; 
•whilst  one  hundred  sailors,  under  captain  Money,  of  the  royal  navy, 
who,  I  am  sorry  to  say,  was  severely  wounded,  but  whose  conduct 
was  particularly  distinguished  on  the  occasion,  threatened  the  ene 
my's  left,  supported  by  the  division  of  the  85th  regiment,  under 
captsdn  Schaw. 

When  these  divisions  had  gained  their  proper  position,  I  de 
ployed  the  column  composed  of  two  divisions  of  the  85th  regi 
ment,  under  major  Deshon,  whose  conduct  I  cannot  sufficiently 
recommend,  and  about  one  hundred  men  of  the  royal  marines,  un 
der  major  Adair,  also  deserving  of  much  commendation,  and  mov 
ed  forward  in  line,  to  the  attack  of  the  centre  of  the  intrenchment. 

At  first  the  enemy,  confident  in  his  own  security,  showed  a 
good  countenance,  and  kept  up  a  heavy  fire,  but  the  determination 
of  the  troops  which  I  had  the  honour  to  command,  to  overcome  all 
difficulties,  compelled  him  to  a  rapid  and  disorderly  flight,  leaving 
in  our  possession  his  redoubts,  batteries,  and  position,  with  sixteen 
pieces  of  ordnance,  and  the  colours  of  the  New  Orleans  regiment 
of  militia. 

Of  the  ordnance  taken,  I  enclose  the  specified  return  of  ma 
jor  Mitchell,  of  the  royal  artillery,  who  accompanied  and  afforded 
me  much  assistance,  by  his  able  directions  of  the  firing  of  some 
rockets,  it  not  having  been  found  practicable,  in  the  first  instance, 
to  bring  over  the  artillery  attached  to  his  command. 

I  shall  have  the  honour  of  sending  you  a  return  of  the  casu 
alties  that  have  occurred,  as  soon  as  it  is  possible  to  collect  them. 


APPENDIX.  clix 

but  I  am  happy  to  say  they  are  extremely  inconsiderable  when 
the  strength  of  the  position,  and  the  number  of  the  enemy  are  con 
sidered,  which  our  prisoners  (about  thirty  in  number)  agree  in 
stating  from  fifteen  hundred  to  two  thousand  men,  commanded  by 
general  Morgan. 

I  should  be  extremely  wanting  both  in  justice  and  in  grati 
tude,  were  I  not  to  request  your  particular  notice  of  the  officers 
whose  names  I  have  mentioned,  as  well  as  of  major  Blanchard,  of 
the  royal  engineers,  and  lieutenant  Peddie,  of  the  27th  regiment, 
deputy  assistant-quarter-master-general,  whose  zeal  and  intelli 
gence  I  found  of  the  greatest  service. 

The  wounded  men  are  meeting  with  every  degree  of  atten 
tion  and  humanity  by  the  medical  arrangements  of  staff  surgeon 
Baxter. 

The  enemy's  camp  is  supplied  with  a  great  abundance  of 
provisions,  and  a  very  large  store  of  all  sorts  of  ammunition. 

On  moving  to  the  attack  I  received  a  wound,  which  shortly 
after  my  reaching  the  redoubt,  occasioned  me  such  pain  and  stiff 
ness,  that  I  have  been  obliged  to  give  over  the  command  of  the 
troops  on  this  side  to  lieutenant-colonel  Gubbins,  of  the  85th  light 
infantry;  but  as  he  has  obtained  some  re-enforcement  since  the  at 
tack,  of  sailors  and  marines,  and  has  taken  the  best  precautions  to 
cover  and  secure  his  position,  I  will  be  answerable,  from  my 
knowledge  of  his  judgment  and  experience,  that  he  will  retain  it, 
until  your  pleasure  and  further  orders  shall  be  communicated  to 
him. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 
(Signed)  W.  THORNTON. 

No.  6. 
Letter  from  vice-admiral  Cochrane  to  John  Wilson  Croker^  e&q. 

Armi.de,  off  Isle  au  Chat,  January  18,  181-5, 

Sm, 

AN  unsuccessful  attempt  to  gain  possession  of  the  enemy's 
lines  near  New  Orleans  on  the  8th  instant,  having  left  me  to  de 
plore  the  fall  of  major-general  the  hon.  Sir  Edward  Pakenhaui, 
and  major-general  Gibbs,  and  deprived  the  service  of  the  present 
assistance  of  major-general  Keane,  whe  is  severely  wounded,  I 


clx  APPENDIX. 

send  the  Plantagenet  to  England,  to  convey  a  despatch  from 
major-general  Lambert,  upon  whom  the  command  of  the  army 
has  devolved,  and  to  inform  my  lords  commissioners  of  the  admi 
ralty  of  the  operations  of  the  combined  forces  since  my  arrival 
upon  this  coast. 

The  accompanying  letters,  Nos.  163  and  169,  of  the  7th  and 
16th  ultimo,  will  acquaint  their  lordships  of  the  proceedings  of 
the  squadron  to  the  15th  December. 

The  great  distance  from  the  anchorage  of  the  frigates  and 
troop-ships  to  the  bayou  Catalan,  which,  from  the  best  informa 
tion  we  could  gain,  appeared  to  offer  the  most  secure,  and  was, 
indeed,  the  only  unprotected  spot  whereat  to  effect  a  disembarka 
tion;  and  our  means,  even  with  the  addition  of  the  captured  ene 
my's  gun-vessels,  only  affording  us  transport  for  half  the  army, 
exclusive  of  the  supplies  that  were  required,  it  became  necessary, 
in  order  to  have  support  for  the  division  that  would  first  land,  to 
assemble  the  whole  at  some  intermediate  position,  from  whence 
the  second  division  could  be  re-embarked  in  light  vessels  brought 
into  the  lake,  as  near  the  bayou  as  might  be  practicable,  and  re 
main  there  until  the  boats  could  land  the  first  division  and  return. 

Upon  the  16th,  therefore,  the  advance,  commanded  by  colo 
nel  Thornton,  of  the  85th  regiment,  was  put  into  the  gun-vessels 
and  boats,  and  captain  Gordon  of  the  Seahorse  proceeded  with 
them,  and  took  post  upon  the  Isle  aux  Poix,  a  small  swampy  spot 
at  the  mouth  of  the  Pearl  river,  about  thirty  miles  from  the  an 
chorage,  and  nearly  the  same  distance  from  the  bayou,  where  ma 
jor-general  Keane,  rear-admiral  Codrington,  and  myself,  joined 
them  on  the  following  day;  meeting  the  gun- vessels  and  boats  re 
turning  to  the  shipping  for  troops  and  supplies  of  stores  and  pro 
visions. 

The  hon.  captain  Spencer,  of  the  Carron,  and  lieutenant  Ped- 
dy,  of  the  quarter-master-general's  department,  who  were  sent  to 
reconnoitre  the  bayou  Catalan,  now  returned  with  a  favourable  re 
port  of  its  position  for  disembarking  the  army;  having,  with  their 
guide,  pulled  up  in  a  canoe  to  the  head  of  the  bayou,  a  distance 
of  eight  miles,  and  landed  within  a  mile  and  a  half  of  the  high 
foad  to,  and  about  six  miles  below  New  Orleans,  where  they  cros 
sed  the  road  without  meeting  with  any  interruption,  or  perceiving 
the  least  preparation  on  the  part  of  the  enemy.  . 


APPENDIX.  clxi 

The  severe  changes  of  the  weather,  from  rain  to  fresh  gales 
and  hard  frost,  retarding  the  boats  in  their  repeated  passages  to 
and  from  the  shipping,  it  was  not  until  the  21st  that  (leaving  on 
board  the  greater  part  of  the  two  black  regiments  and  the  dra 
goons)  we  could  assemble  troops  and  supplies  sufficient  to  admit 
of  our  proceeding;  and  on  that  day  we  recommenced  the  embarka 
tion  of  the  second  division  in  the  gun-vessels,  such  of  the  hired 
craft  as  could  be  brought  into  the  lakes,  and  the  Anaconda,  which 
by  the  greatest  exertions  had  been  got  over  the  shoal  passage. 

On  the  22d  these  vessels  being  filled  with  about  two  thousand 
four  hundred  men,  the  advance,  consisting  of  about  one  thousand 
six  hundred  men,  got  into  the  boats,  and  at  eleven  o'clock  the 
whole  started,  with  a  fair  wind,  to  cross  Lac  Borgne.  We  had 
not,  however,  proceeded  above  two  miles  when  the  Anaconda 
grounded,  and  the  hired  craft  and  gun-vessels  taking  the  ground 
in  succession  before  they  had  got  within  ten  miles  of  the  bayou; 
the  advance  pushed  on,  and  at  about  midnight  reached  the  en 
trance. 

A  piquet,  which  the  enemy  had  taken  the  precaution  to  place 
there,  being  surprised  and  cut  off,  major-general  Keane,  with 
rear-admiral  Malcolm  and  the  advance,  moved  up  the  bayou,  and 
having  effected  a  landing  at  day-break,  in  the  course  of  the  day 
was  enabled  to  take  up  a  position  across  the  main  road  to  New 
Orleans,  between  the  river  Mississippi  and  the  bayou. 

In  this  situation,  about  an  hour  after  sun-set,  and  before  the 
boats  could  return  with  the  second  division,  an  enemy's  schooner 
of  fourteen  guns,  and  an  armed  ship  of  sixteen  guns,  having  drop 
ped  down  the  Mississippi,  the  former  commenced  a  brisk  can 
nonading,  which  was  followed  up  by  an  attack  of  the  whole  of  the 
American  army.  Their  troops  were,  however,  beaten  off,  an4 
obliged  to  retire  with  considerable  loss,  and  major-general  Keane 
advanced  somewhat  beyond  his  former  position.  As  soon  as  the 
second  division  was  brought  up,  the  gun-vessels  and  boats  re 
turned  for  the  remainder  of  the  troops,  the  small  armed  seamen 
and  marines  of  the  squadron,  and  such  supplies  as  were  required. 

On  the  26th,  major-general  sir  E.  Pakenham  and  major- 
general  Gibbs  arrived  at  head-quarters,  when  the  former  took 
command  of  the  army. 


APPENDIX. 

The  schooner  which  had  continued  at  intervals  to  annoy  the 
troops,  having  been  burnt  on  the  27th  by  hot  shot  from  our  artil 
lery,  and  the  ship  having  warped  farther  up  the  river,  the  follow 
ing  day  the  general  moved  forward  to  within  gun-shot  of  an  in- 
trenchment  which  the  enemy  had  newly  thrown  up,  extending 
across  the  cultivated  ground  from  the  Mississippi  to  an  impassa 
ble  swampy  wood  on  his  left,  a  distance  of  about  one  thousand 
yards. 

It  being  thought  necessary  to  bring  heavy  artillery  against 
this  work,  and  also  against  the  ship  which  had  cannonaded  the 
army  when  advancing,  guns  were  brought  up  from  the  shipping, 
and  on  the  1st  instant  batteries  were  opened;  but  our  fire  not 
having  the  desired  effect,  the  attack  was  deferred  until  the  arrival 
of  the  troops  under  major-general  Lambert,  which  were  daily  ex 
pected. 

Major-general  Lambert,  in  the  Vengeur,  with  a  convoy  of 
transports,  having  on  board  the  7th  and  43d  regiments,  reached 
the  outer  anchorage  on  the  1  st,  and  this  re-enforcement  was  all 
brought  lip  to  the  advance  on  the  6th  instant,  while  preparations 
were  making  for  a  second  attack,  in  the  proposed  plan  for  which 
it  was  decided  to  throw  a  body  of  men  across  the  river  to  gain 
possession  of  the  enemy's  guns  on  the  right  bank.  For  this  pur 
pose  the  canal  by  which  we  were  enabled  to  conduct  provisions 
and  stores  towards  the  camp,  was  widened  and  extended  to  the 
river,  and  about  fifty  barges,  pinnaces,  and  cutters,  having,  in  the 
day  of  the  7th,  been  tracked  under  cover  and  unperceived,  close 
up  to  the  bank,  at  night  the  whole  were  dragged  into  the  Missis 
sippi,  and  placed  under  the  command  of  captain  Roberts,  of  the 
Meteor. 

The  boats  having  grounded  in  the  canal,  a  distance  of  three 
hundred  and  fifty  yards  from  the  river,  and  the  bank  being  com 
posed  of  wet  clay  thrown  out  of  the  canal,  it  was  not  until  nearly 
daylight  that,  with  the  utmost  possible  exertions,  this  service  was 
completed. 

The  85th  regiment,  with  a  division  of  seamen  under  captain 
Money,  and  a  division  of  marines  under  major  Adair,  the  whole 
amounting  to  about  six  hundred  men,  commanded  by  col.  Thorn 
ton,  of  the  85th  regiment,  were  embarked  and  landed  on  the  right 


APPENDIX.  clxiii 

bank  of  the  river  without  opposition,  just  after  daylight;  and  the 
armed  boats  moving  up  the  river  as  the  troops  advanced,  this  part 
of  the  operations  succeeded  perfectly;  the  enemy  having  been  dri 
ven  from  every  position,  leaving  behind  him  seventeen  pieces  of 
cannon. 

The  great  loss  however  sustained  by  the  principal  attack 
having  induced  general  Lambert  to  send  orders  to  colonel  Thorn 
ton  to  retire  after  spiking  the  guns  and  destroying  the  carriages, 
the  whole  were  re-embarked  and  brought  back,  and  the  boats,  by 
a  similar  process  of  hard  labour,  were  again  dragged  into  the  ca 
nal,  and  from  thence  to  the  bayou,  conveying  at  the  same  time 
such  of  the  wounded  as  it  was  thought  requisite  to  send  off  to  the 
ships. 

Major-general  Lambert  having  determined  to  withdraw  the 
army,  measures  were  taken  to  .re-embark  the  whole  of  the  sick 
and  wounded  that  it  was  possible  to  move,  and  the  stores,  ammu 
nition,  ordnance,  8cc.  with  such  detachments  of  the  army,  seamen, 
and  marines,  as  were  not  immediately  wanted;  in  order  that  the 
remainder  of  the  army  may  retire  unincumbered,  and  the  last  di- 
vison  be  furnished  with  sufficient  means  of  transport. 

This  arrangement  being  in  a  forward  state  of  execution,  I 
quitted  head-quarters  on  the  14th  instant,  leaving  rear-admiral 
Malcolm  to  conduct  the  naval  part  of  the  operations  in  that  quar 
ter,  and  I  arrived  at  this  anchorage  on  the  16th,  where  I  am  ar 
ranging  for  the  reception  of  the  army,  and  preparing  the  fleet  for 
further  operations. 

I  must,  in  common  with  the  nation,  lament  the  loss  which 
the  service  has  sustained  by  the  death  of  major-general  the  lion, 
sir  Edward  Pakenham,  and  major-general  Gibbs.  Their  great 
military  qualities  were  justly  estimated  while  living,  and  their 
zealous  devotion  to  our  country's  welfare,  will  be  cherished  as  an 
example  to  future  generations. 

In  justice  to  the  officers  and  men  of  the  squadron  under  my 
command  who  have  been  employed  upon  this  expedition,  I  cannot 
omit  to  call  the  attention  of  my  lords  commissioners  of  the  admi 
ralty  to  the  laborious  exertions  and  great  prr  utions  which  have 
been  willingly  and  cheerfully  borne,  by  every  class,  for  a  period 
of  nearly  six  weeks. 


clxiv  APPENDIX. 

From  the  12th  of  December,  when  the  boats  proceeded  to 
the  attack  of  the  enemy's  gun-vessels,  to  the  present  time,  but 
very  few  of  the  officers  or  men  have  ever  slept  on  board  their 
ships. 

The  whole  of  the  army,  with  the  principal  part  of  its  provi 
sions,  its  stores,  artillery,  ammunition,  and  the  numerous  neces 
sary  appendages,  have  been  all  transported  from  the  shipping  to 
the  head  of  the  bayou,  a  distance  of  seventy  miles,  chiefly  in  open 
boats,  and  are  now  re-embarking  by  the  same  process.  The  hard 
ships,  therefore,  which  the  boats  crews  have  undergone,  from  their 
being  kept  day  and  night  continually  passing  and  repassing  in  the 
most  changeable  and  severe  weather,  have  rarely  been  equalled; 
and  it  has  been  highly  honourable  to  both  services,  and  most  gra 
tifying  to  myself,  to  observe  the  emulation  and  unanimity  which 
has  pervaded  the  whole. 

Rear-admiral  Malcolm  superintended  the  disembarkation  of 
the  army,  and  the  various  services  performed  by  the  boats;  and  it 
is  a  duty  that  I  fulfil  with  much  pleasure,  in  assuring  their  lord 
ships  that  his  zeal  and  exertions  upon  every  occasion  could  not  be 
surpassed  by  any  one.  I  beg  leave  also  to  offer  my  testimony  to 
the  unwearied  and  cheerful  assistance  afforded  to  the  rear-admi 
ral  by  captains  sir  Thomas  M.  Hardy,  Dashwood,  and  Gordon, 
and  the  several  captains  and  other  officers.  Rear-admiral  Cod- 
rington  accompanied  me  throughout  the  service,  and  I  feel  much 
indebted  for  his  able  advice  and  assistance. 

Captain  sir  Thomas  Troubridge,  and  the  officers  and  seamen 
attached,  under  his  command,  to  the  army,  have  conducted  them 
selves  much  to  the  satisfaction  of  the  generals  commanding.  Sir 
Thomas  Troubridge  speaks  in  the  highest  terms  of  the  captains 
and  other  officers  employed  under  him,  as  named  in  his  letter  (a 
copy  of  which  is  enclosed)  reporting  their  services.  He  particu 
larly  mentions  captain  Money,  of  the  Trave,  who  I  am  much  con 
cerned  to  say,  had  both  bones  of  his  leg  broken  by  a  musket  shot, 
advancing  under  a  heavy  fire  to  the  attack  of  the  battery  that  was' 
afterwards  carried. 

The  conduct  of  captain  Money  at  Washington  and  near  Bal 
timore,  where  he  was  employed  with  the  army,  having  before  oc 
casioned  my  noticing  him  to  their  lordships,  I  beg  leave  now  to 


APPENDIX.  clxv 

recommend  him  most  strongly  to  their  protection.  The  wound 
that  he  has  received  not  affording  hitn  any  probability  of  his  being 
able  to  return  to  his  duty  for  a  considerable  time,  I  have  given 
him  leave  to  go  to  England;  and  shall  intrust  to  him  my  despatches. 

I  have  not  yet  received  any  official  report  from  the  captain  Of 
the  Nymph,  which  ship,  with  the  vessels  named  in  the  margin,* 
were  sent  into  the  Mississippi,  to  create  a  diversion  in  that  quarter. 

The  bombs  have  been  for  some  days  past  throwing  shells  in 
to  fort  Plaquemine,  but  I  fear  without  much  effect.  I  have  sent 
to  recall  such  of  them  as  are  not  required  for  the  blockade  of  the 

river. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 

ALEXANDER  COCHRANE. 

Letter  from  cafit.  Thomas  Troubridge  to  -vice-admiral  Cochrane. 

Head-quarters  near  New  Orleans,  January  12,  1815- 
SIR, 

THE  conduct  and  exertions  of  the  officers  and  seamen  which 

you  did  me  the  honour  to  place  under  my  command  to  serve  with 
the  army  on  shore,  having  been  such  as  to  meet  very  general  ap 
probation,  I  feel  it  a  duty  I  owe  to  them  to  make  such  known  to 
you,  and  to  particularize  the  exertions  of  captains  Money,  Rogers, 
and  Westphall. 

I  cannot  sufficiently  express  the  high  sense  I  entertain  of  the 
seal  and  activity  of  lieutenant  Scott,  of  the  Tonnant,  and  lieute 
nant  Fletcher  ef  the  Norge,  who,  on  all  occasions,  have  shown 
themselves  most  deserving  officers. 

Captains  Money  and  Rogers,  who  were  detached  across  the 
river,  again  report  the  exertion  and  gallantry  of  lieutenant  Scott, 
and  also  of  Mr.  Woolcombe,  midshipman  of  his  majesty's  ship 
Tonnant,  who  particularly  distinguished  themselves  in  leading 
their  men  under  a  heavy  fire  to  the  battery  that  was  carried.  It 
is  with  infinite  regret  that  I  report  the  severe  wound  captain  Mo 
ney  received  while  on  this  service.  To  lieutenants  Wroote,  of 
the  Royal  Oak,  and  Franklin,  of  the  Bedford,  with  the  many  other 
officers  employed,  every  praise  is  due. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  &c. 

THOMAS  TROUBRIDGE. 

*  Nymph,  Herald,  ^tna,  Meteor,  Thistle,  Pigmy. 


clxvi  APPENDIX. 

No.  7. 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  earl  Dathurst. 
His  Britannic  Majesty's  shi/i   Tonnant,   off  Chandeleur's  island^ 

January  28 th,  1815. 
MY  LORD, 

After  maturely  deliberating  on  the  situation  of  this  army, 
after  the  command  had  unfortunate!^  devolved  upon  me,  on  the 
8th  instant,  and  duly  considering  what  probability  now  remained 
of  carrying  on  with  success,  on  the  same  plan,  an  attack  against 
New  Orleans,  it  appeared  to  me  that  it  ought  not  to  be  persisted 
in.  I  immediately  communicated  to  vice-admiral  sir  A.  Coch- 
rane  that  I  did  not  think  it  would  be  prudent  to  make  any  further 
attempt  at  present,  and  that  I  recommended  re-embarking  the 
army  as  soon  as  possible,  with  a  view  to  carry  into  effect  the  other 
objects  of  the  force  employed  upon  this  coast;  from  the  9th  inst. 
it  was  determined  that  the  army  should  retreat,  and  I  have  the 
satisfaction  of  informing  your  lordship  that  it  was  effected  on  the 
night  of  the  1 8th  inst.  and  ground  was  taken  up  on  the  morning 
of  the  19fh  on  both  sides  of  the  bayone,  or  creek,  which  the  troops 
had  entered  on  their  disembarkation,  fourteen  miles  from  their 
position  before  the  enemy's  line,  covering  New  Orleans,  on  the 
left  bank  of  the  Mississippi,  and  one  mile  from  the  entrance  into 
Lac  Borgne:  the  army  remained  in  bivouac  until  the  27th  instant^ 
when  the  whole  were  re-embarked. 

In  stating  the  circumstances  of  this  retreat  to  your  lordship, 
I  shall  confidently  trust  that  good  order  and  discipline  ever  exist 
ed  in  this  army,  and  that  zeal  for  the  service,  and  attention  was 
ever  conspicuous  in  officers  of  all  ranks.  Your  lordship  is  alrea 
dy  acquainted  with  the  position  the  army  occupied,  its  advanced 
post  close  up  to  the  enemy's,  and  the  greater  part  of  the  army 
were  exposed  to  the  fire  of  the  batteries  which  was  unremitting 
day  and  night  since  the  1  st  of  January,  when  the  position  in  ad 
vance  was  taken  up.  The  retreat  was  effected  without  being- 
harassed  in  any  degree  by  the  enemy;  all  the  sick  and  wounded 
(with  the  exception  of  eighty,  whom  it  was  considered  dangerous 
to  remove),  field  artillery,  ammunition,  hospital  and  other  stores 
of  every  description,  which  had  been  landed  on  a  very  large  scale. 


APPENDIX. 

were  brought  away,  and  nothing  fell  into  the  enemy's  hands,  ex 
cepting  six  iron  eighteen-pounders,  mounted  on  sea  carriages, 
and  two  carronades,  which  were  in  position  on  the  left  bank  of  the 
Mississippi;  to  bring  them  off  at  the  moment  the  army  was  re 
tiring  was  impossible,  and  to  have  clone  it  previously  would  have 
exposed  the  whole  force  to  any  fire  the  enemy  might  have  sent 
down  the  river.  These  batteries  were  of  course  destroyed,  and 
the  guns  rendered  perfectly  unserviceable;  only  four  men  were 
reported  absent  next  morning,  and  those,  I  suppose,  must  have 
been  left  behind  and  have  fallen  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy:  but 
when  it  is  considered  the  troops  were  in  perfect  ignorance  of  the 
movement,  until  a  fixed  hour  during  the  night,  that  the  picquets 
did  not  move  off  till  half-past  three  o'clock  in  the  morning,  and 
that  the  whole  had  to  retire  through  the  most  difficult  new  made 
road,  cut  marshy  ground,  impassable  for  a  horse,  and  where,  in 
many  places,  the  men  could  only  go  in  single  files,  and  that  the 
absence  of  men  might  be  accounted  for  in  so  many  ways,  it  would 
be  rather  a  matte?  of  surprise  the  number  was  so  few. 

An  exchange  of  prisoners  has  been  effected  with  the  enemy 
upon  very  fair  terms,  and  their  attention  to  the  brave  prisoners, 
and  wounded,  that  have  fallen  into  their  hands,  has  been  kind  and 
humane,  I  have  every  reason  to  believe. 

However  unsuccessful  the  termination  of  the  late  service  the 
army  and  navy  have  been  employed  upon,  has  turned  out,  it 
would  be  injustice  not  to  point  out  how  much  praise  is  due  to  their 
exertions;  ever  since  the  13th  December,  when  the  army  began 
to  move  from  the  ships,  the  fatigue  of  disembarking  and  bringing 
up  artillery  and  supplies  from  such  a  distance  has  been  incessant; 
and  I  must  add,  that  owing  to  the  exertions  of  the  navy,  the  army 
has  never  wanted  provisions.  The  labour  of  the  seamen  and  sol 
diers  was  particularly  conspicuous  on  the  night  of  the  7th  inst. 
when  fifty  boats  were  dragged  through  a  canal  into  the  Mississip 
pi,  in  which  there  were  only  eighteen  inches  of  water,  and  I  am 
confident  that  the  vice-admiral  sir  Alexander  Cochrane,  who  sug 
gested  the  possibility  of  this  operation,  will  be  equally  ready  to 
admit  this,  as  well  as  the  hearty  co-operations  of  the  troops  on 
all  occasions. 


clxviii  APPENDIX. 

From  what  has  come  under  my  own  observation  since  I 
joined  this  army,  and  from  official  reports  that  have  been  made 
to  me,  I  beg  to  call  your  lordship's  attention  to  individuals  who., 
from  their  station,  have  rendered  themselves  peculiarly  conspicu 
ous.  Major  Forrest,  at  the  head  of  the  quarter-master- general's 
department,  I  cannot  say  too  much  of.  Lieutenant  Evans  and 
Peddie  of  the  same,  have  been  remarkable  for  their  exertions  and 
indefatigability;  sir  John  Tylden,  who  had  acted  in  the  field  as 
assistant  adjutant-general  with  me  (lieutenant-colonel  Stovin  hav 
ing  been  wounded  on  the  23d  ult.  though  doing  well,  not  as  yet 
being  permitted  to  take  active  service),  has  been  very  useful;  on 
the  night  of  the  7th,  previous  to  the  attack,  rear-admiral  Malcolm 
reports  the  great  assistance  he  received  from  him  in  forwarding 
the  boats  into  the  Mississippi;  captain  Wood,  of  the  4th  regiment, 
deputy  assistant  adjutant-general,  has  filled  that  situation  since  the 
first  disembarkation  of  the  troops  with  zeal  and  attention. 

During  the  action  of  the  8th  inst.  the  command  of  the  2d 
brigade  devolved  upon  lieutenant-colonel  Brooke,  4th  regiment, 
that  of  the  3d  upon  colonel  Hamilton,  5th  West  India  regiment, 
and  the  reserve  upon  colonel  Blayken,  royal  fusileers;  to  all  these 
officers  I  feel  much  indebted  for  their  service.  Lieutenant-colo 
nel  Dickson,  royal  artillery,  has  displayed  his  usual  abilities  and 
assiduity;  he  reports  to  me  his  general  satisfaction  of  all  the  offi 
cers  under  his  command,  especially  major  Munro,  senior  officer 
of  the  royal  artillery,  previous  to  his  arrival,  and  of  the  officers 
commanding  companies. 

Lieutenant-colonel  Burgoyne,  royal  engineers,  afforded  me 
every  assistance  that  could  be  expected  from  his  known  talents 
and  experience;  that  service  lost  a  very  valuable  and  much  es 
teemed  officer  in  lieutenant  Wright,  who  was  killed  when  recoa- 
noitring  on  the  evening  of  the  3 1st  ultimo. 

Lieutenant-colonel  Mein,  of  the  43d,  and  lieutenant-colonel 
Gubbins,  85th  regiment,  field  officers  of  the  piquets  on  the  1.8th, 
have  great  credit  for  the  manner  in  which  they  withdrew  the  out 
posts  on  the  morning  of  the  19th  under  the  direction  of  colonel 
Blakeney,  royal  fusileers. 

I  request  in  a  particular  manner  to  express  how  much  this 
army  is  indebted  to  the  attention  and  diligence  of  Mr.  Robb,  de- 


APPENDIX.  clxi* 

puty  inspector  of  hospitals,  and  their  immediate  removal,  with 
such  excellent  arrangement,  that  tne  wounded  were  all  brought 
off  with  very  favourable  circumstance,  except  such  cases  as  would 
have  rendered  their  removal  dangerous. 

Captain  sir  Thomas  Troubridge,  royal  navy,  who  command 
ed  a  battalion  of  seamen,  and  who  was  attached  to  act  with  the 
troops,  rendered  the  greatest  service  by  his  exertions  in  whatever 
way  they  were  required;  colonel  Dickson,  royal  artillery,  par 
ticularly  mentions  how  much  he  was  indebted  to  him. 

The  conduct  of  two  squadrons  of  the  14th  light  dragoons, 
latterly  under  the  command  of  lieutenant-colonel  Baker,  previ 
ously  of  major  Mills,  has  been  the  admiration  of  every  one,  by 
the  cheerfulness  with  which  they  have  performed  all  descriptions 
of  service.  I  must  also  mention  the  exertions  of  the  royal  staff 
corps  under  major  Todd  so  reported  by  the  deputy-quarter-master- 
general. 

Permit  me  to  add  the  obligations  I  ani  under  to  my  personal 
staff.  Lieuteuant  the  honourable  Edward  Curzon,  of  the  royal 
navy,  who  was  selected  as  a  naval  aid-de-camp  to  the  command 
ing  officer  of  the  troops  on  their  first  disembarkation,  each  of 
whom  have  expressed  the  satisfaction  they  had  in  his  appointment, 
to  which  I  confidently  add  my  own. 

Major  Smith,  of  the  95th  regiment,  now  acting  as  military 
secretary,  is  so  well  known  for  his  zeal  and  talents,  that  I  can 
with  great  truth  say,  that  I  think  he  possesses  every  qualification 
to  render  him  hereafter  one  of  the  brightest  ornaments  of  his  pro 
fession. 

I  cannot  conclude  without  expressing  how  much  the  army 
is  indebted  to  rear-admiral  Malcolm,  who  had  the  immediate 
charge  of  landing  and  re-embarking  the  troops;  he  remained  on. 
shore  to  the  last,  and  by  his  abilities  and  activity  smoothed  every 
difficulty. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  Sec. 

(Signed)  JOHN  LAMBERT. 

P.  S.  I  regret  to  have  to  report  that  during  the  night  of  the 
25th,  in  very  bad  weather,  a  boat  containing  two  officers,  viz.  lieu 
tenant  Brydges  andeorpet  Hammond,  and  thirty-seven  of  the  14th 


clxx  APPENDIX. 

light  dragoons,  unfortunately  fjtfi  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy,  off 
the  mouth  cf  the  Rigolets.  I  have  not  been  able  to  ascertain  cor 
rectly  the  particular  circumstances. 

Return  of  casualties  in  action  with  the  enemy  near  JVew  Orleans^ 
on  the  23d and  24M  December,  1814. 

General  staff— 1  lieutenant-colonel,  1  major,  1  lieutenant 
wounded. 

Royal  artillery — 2  rank  and  file  killed;  1  lieutenant,  7  rank 
and  file  missing. 

Royal  engineers,  sappers  and  miners-—!  rank  and  file  mis 
sing. 

4th  foot — 1  captain,  1  lieutenant,  1  sergeant,  1  drummer,  1 
rank  and  file  killed;  1  sergeant,  2  drummers,  8  rank  and  file 
wounded;  2  rank  and  file  missing. 

35th  ditto — 2  captains,  1 1  rank  and  file,  killed;  1  captain,  3 
lieutenants,  4  sergeants,  2  drummers,  57  rank  and  file,  wounded; 
1  lieutenant,  1  ensign,  1  sergeant,  16  rank  and  file,  missing. 

93d  do — 1  rank  and  file,  wounded. 

95th  foot— 4-6  sergeants,  17  rank  and  file,  killed;  1  captain,  2 
lieutenants,  6  sergeants,  34  rank  and  file,  wounded;  I  major,  2 
sergeants,  39  rank  and  file,  missing. 

Total — 4  captains,  1  lieutenant,  7  sergeants,  1  drummer,  33 
rank  and  file,  killed;  1  lieutenant-colonel,  1  major,  2  captains,  8 
lieutenants,  10  sergeants,  4  drummers,  141  rank  and  file,  wound 
ed;  I  major,  1  lieutenant,  1  ensign,  3  sergeants,  58  rank  and  file, 
missing. 

NAMES  OF  OFFICERS  KILLED,  WOUNDED,  AND   MISSING. 

KILLED. 

4th  foot — captain  F.  J.  Johnstone,  lieutenant  John  Souther- 
land. 

21st  do — captain  W.  Conran. 

85th  do— captains  C.  Grey  and  C.  Harris. 

WOUNDED. 

General  staff — lieutenant-colonel  Stovin,  28th  foot,  assistant 
adjutant-general,  severely  but  not  dangerouly;  major  Hooper, 
87th  foot,  deputy  assistant  adjutant-general  severely  (leg  ampu 


APPENDIX.  clxxi 

tated),  lieutenant  D.  Evans,  3d  dragoons,  deputy  assistant  quarter 
master-general,  severely. 

Royal  artillery— lieutenant  J.  Christie,  severely. 

4th  foot — lieutenant  T.  Moody,  severely. 

89th  foot — captain  James  Knox,  lieutenants  G.  Willings,  F. 
Maunsell,  and  W.  Hickson,  severely. 

95th  foot— captain  W.  Hallen,  lieutenant  D.  Forbes,  severely; 
lieutenant  W.  J.  G.  Farmer,  slightly. 

MISSING. 

85th  do — lieutenant  W.  Walker,  and  ensign  Q.  Ashton. 
95th  do — major  Samuel  Mitchell. 

FRED.  STOVIN. 

RETURN  OF  CASUALTIES  BETWEEN  THE  25TH  AND  SlST  DEOEM- 

HER,  1814. 

Royal  artillery — 4  rank  and  file  killed;  1  lieutenant,  5  rank 
and  file  wounded. 

Royal  engineers,  sappers  and  miners,  1  rank  and  file  wounded, 

4th  foot — 4  rank  and  file  wounded. 

21st  do — 1  rank  and  file  killed,   1  rank  and  file  wounded. 

44th  do — 2  rank  and  file  wounded;  1  rank  and  file  missing. 

85th  do — 1  drummer,  3  rank  and  file  killed;  2  ensigns,  li 
rank  and  file  wounded. 

93d  do — 2  rank  and  file  killed;  5  rank  and  file  wounded. 

95th  do — 3  rank  and  file  killed;  1  sergeant,  3  rank  and  file 
wounded;  1  rank  and  file  missing. 

1st  West  India  regiment — 1  captain,  killed. 

5th  do — 1  rank  and  file  killed;  2  rank  and  file  wounded. 

Total— 1  captain,  1  drummer,  14  rank  and  file  killed;  1  lieu 
tenant,  2  ensigns,  4  sergeants,  34  rank  and  file  wounded;  2  rank 
and  file  missing. 

NAMES  OF  OFFICERS  KILLED  AND  WOUNDED. 

KILLED. 

1st  West  India  regiment— captain  F.  Collings. 
WOUNDED. 

Royal  artillery — lieutenant  B.  L  Poynter,  slightly. 
85th  foot — ensign  sir  Fred.  Eden,  Bart,  severely  (since  dead"* 
ensign  T.  Ormsby,  slightly.  FRED.  STOVEN. 


clxxil  APPENDIX. 

RETURN  OF  CASUALTIES  BETWEEN  THE  1ST  AND  5TH  JANU 
ARY,  1815. 

Royal  artillery — 1  lieutenant,  1  sergeant,  9  rank  and  file, 
killed;  12  rank  and  file,  wounded. 

Royal  engineers  sappers  and  miners — I  lieutenant,  killed. 

21st  foot — 1  rank  and  file  killed;  one  lieutenant,  4  rank  and 
file  wounded. 

44th  do — 1  lieutenant,  I  rank  and  file  killed;  3  rank  and  file 
Wounded. 

85th  do — 2  rank  and  file  killed;  2  lieutenants,  4  rank  and  file 
wounded. 

93d  do.  foot — 1  sergeant,  8  rank  and  file  killed;  1  lieutenant. 
10  rank  and  file  wounded. 

95th  do — 1  rank  and  file  killed;  2  rank  and  file  missing. 

5lh  West  India  regiment — 4  rank  and  file  killed;  2  rank  and 
file  wounded. 

Total — 3  lieutenants,  2  sergeants,  27  rank  and  file  killed;  4 
lieutenants,  40  rank  and  file  wounded;  2  rank  and  file  missing. 

NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  KILLED   AND   WOUNDED 

KILLED. 

Royal  artillery— lieutenant  A.  Ramsay. 
Royal  engineers — lieutenant  P.  Wright. 
44th  foot — lieutenant  John  Blakeney. 

WOUNDED. 

21st  foot— lieutenant  J.  Leavock,  slightly. 
85th  do — lieutenant  R.   Carlton,  severely;  lieutenant  J.  W. 
Boys,  slightly. 

93d  do — lieutenant  A.  Phaup,  severely,  (since  dead.) 

FRED.  STOVIN. 

No.  8. 

Letter  from  general  Lambert  to  earl  Bathurst. 

Head-Quarters^  Isle  Dauphine,  February  14^,  1815. 
MY  LORD, 

MY  despatch,  dated  January  29th,  will  have  informed  your 
lordship  of  the  re-embarkation  of  this  force,  which  was  completed 
on  the  30th;  the  weather  came  on  so  bad  on  that  night,  and  con- 


APPENDIX.  slxxiii 

tinued  so  until  the  5th  of  February,  that  no  communication  could 
be  held  with  the  ships  at  the  inner  anchorage,  a  distance  of  about 
seventeen  miles. 

It  being  agreed  between  vice-admiral  sir  Alexander  Coch- 
rane  and  myself  that  operations  should  be  carried  towards  Mobile, 
it  was  decided  that  a  force  should  be  sent  against  fort  Bowyer, 
situated  on  the  eastern  point  of  the  entrance  of  the  bay,  and  from 
every  information  that  could  be  obtained,  it  was  considered  a  bri 
gade  would  be  sufficient  for  this  object,  with  a  respectable  force 
of  artillery.  I  ordered  the  second  brigade,  composed  of  the  4th, 
21st  and  44th  regiments,  for  this  service,  together  with  such 
means  in  the  engineer  and  artillery  departments  as  the  chief  and 
commanding  officer  of  the  royal  artillery  might  think  expedient. 
The  remainder  of  the  force  had  orders  to  disembark  on  Isle  Dau- 
phine,  and  encamp;  and  major-general  Keane,  whom  I  am  truly 
happy  to  say  has  returned  to  his  duty,  superintended  their  ar 
rangement. 

The  weather  being  favourable  on  the  7th  for  the  landing  to 
the  eastward  of  Mobile  Point,  the  ships  destined  to  move  on  that 
service  sailed  under  the  command  of  captain  Ricketts,  of  the 
Vengeur,  but  did  not  arrive  in  sufficient  time  that  evening  to  do 
more  than  determine  the  place  of  disembarkation,  which  was 
about  three  miles  from  fort  Bowyer. 

At  daylight  the  next  morning  the  troops  got  into  the  boats, 
and  six  hundred  men  were  landed  under  lieutenant-colonel  Deb- 
beig,  of  the  44th,  without  opposition,  who  immediately  threw  out 
the  light  companies  under  lieutenant  Bennett,  of  the  4th  regi 
ment,  to  cover  the  landing  of  the  brigade.  Upon  the  whole  being 
disembarked,  a  disposition  was  made  to  move  on  towards  the  fort, 
covered  by  the  light  companies.  The  enemy  was  not  seen  until 
about  one  thousand  yards  in  front  of  their  works;  they  gradually 
fell  back,  and  no  firing  took  place  until  the  whole  had  retired  into 
the  fort,  and  our  advance  had  pushed  on  nearly  to  within  three 
hundred  yards.  Having  reconnoitred  the  forts  with  lieutenant- 
colonels  Burgoyne  and  Dickson,  we  were  decidedly  of  opinion, 
that  the  work  was  formidable  only  against  an  assault;  that  batte^ 
ries  being  once  established,  it  must  speedily  fall.  Every  exertion 
was  made  by  the  navy  to  land  provisions,  and  the  necessary  equip- 


clxxiv  APPENDIX. 

ment  of  the  battering  train  and  engineer  stores.  We  broke  ground 
on  the  night  of  the  8thr  and  advanced  a  firing  party  to  within  one 
hundred  yards  of  the  fort  during  the  night.  The  position  of  tke 
batteries  being  decided  upon  the  next  day,  they  were  ready  to  re 
ceive  their  guns  on  the  night  of  the  10th,  and  on  the  morning  of 
1 1th  the  fire  of  a  battery  of  four  eighteen-pounders  on  the  left, 
and  two  eight-inch  howitzers  on  the  right,  each  about  one  hundred 
yards  distance,  two  six-pounders  at  about  three  hundred  yards, 
and  eight  small  cohorns  advantageously  placed  on  the  right,  with 
intervals  between  of  one  hundred  and  two  hundred  yards,  all  fur 
nished  to  keep  up  an  incessant  fire  for  two  clays,  were  prepared  to 
open.  Preparatory  to  commencing,  I  summoned  the  fort,  allow 
ing  the  commanding  officer  half  an  hour  for  decision  upon  such 
terms  as  were  proposed.  Finding  he  was  inclined  to  consider 
them,  I  prolonged  the  period,  at  his  request,  and  at  three  o'clock 
the  fort  was  given  up  to  a  British  guard,  and  British  colours 
hoisted;  the  terms  being  signed  by  major  Smith,  military  secre 
tary,  and  captain  Ricketts,  R.  N.  and  finally  approved  of  by  the 
vice-admiral  and  myself,  which  I  have  the  honour  to  enclose.  I 
am  happy  to  say  our  loss  was  not  very  great;  and  we  are  indebted 
for  this,  in  a  great  measure,  to  the  efficient  means  attached  to  this 
force.  Had  we  been  obliged  to  resort  to  any  other  mode  of  attack, 
the  fall  could  not  have  been  looked  for  under  such  favourable 
circumstances. 

We  have  certain  information  of  a  force  having  been  sent  from 
Mobile,  and  disembarked  about  twelve  miles  off,  in  the  night  of 
the  10th,  to  attempt  its  relief;  two  schooners  with  provisions,  and 
an  intercepted  letter,  fell  into  our  hands,  taken  by  captain  Price, 
R.  N.  stationed  in  the  bay. 

I  cannot  close  this  despatch  without  naming  to  your  lordship 
again  lieutenant-colonels  Dickson,  royal  artillery,  and  Burgoyne, 
royal  engineers,  who  displayed  their  usual  zeal  and  abilities;  and 
lieutenant  Bennet,  of  the  4th,  who  commanded  the  light  compa 
nies  and  pushed  up  close  to  the  enemy's  works. 

Captain  hon.  R.  Spencer,  R.  N.  who  had  been  placed  with  a 
detachment  of  seamen  under  my  orders,  greatly  facilitated  the 
service  in  every  way  by  his  exertions. 


APPENDIX.  elxxv 

From  captain  Ricketts,  of  the  R.  N.  who  was  charged  with 
the  landing  and  the  disposition  of  the  naval  force,  I  received  eve 
ry  assistance. 

JOHN  LAMBERT. 

Fort  Boiuyer,  February  14'A,  1815. 

Return  of  ordnance,  ammunition  and  stores,  captured  from  the 
enemy  in  this  place,  on  the  Vlth  instant: 

GUNS. 

1  twenty-four-pounder,  2  nine-pounders,  outside  the  fort. 
Iron — 3  thirly-two-pounders,  8  twenty-four-pounders,   6   twelve- 
pounders,  5  nine-pounders. 
Brass — 1  four-pounder. 
Mortar — 1  eight-inch. 
Howitzer—  1  fi  ve-and-a-half-inch. 

SHOT. 

Thirty -two-pounder — 85  6  round,  64  grape,  11  case. 

Twenty- four-pounder — 851  round,  176  bar,  286  grape,  84  case. 

Twelve-pounder — 535  round,  74  grape,  439  case. 

Nine-pounder — 781  round,  208  grape,  429  case. 

Six-pounder— 15  round,  75  bar,  13  case. 

Four-pounder — 231  round,  38  grape,  147  case. 

Shells — 25  eight-inch,  74  five-and-a-half-inch. 

183  hand-grenades. 

5,519  pounds  powder. 

i  triangle  gin,  complete. 

16,976  musket  ball-cartridges. 

500  flints. 

35 1  muskets,  complete,  with  accoutrements. 

JAS.  PERCIVAL,  Ass.  Com.  Royal  Artillery. 

A.  DICKSON,  Lt.  Col.  Com.  Royal  Artillery. 

Return  of  casualties  in  the  army  under  the  command  of  major 
general  Lambert,  employed  before  fort  Bowyer,  between  the 
8th  and  12th  of  February,  1815. 

Royal  sappers  and  miners — 1  rank  and  file  wounded. 

1th  foot — 8  rank  and  file  killed;  2  Serjeants,  13  rank  and  file 
wounded. 


clxxvr  APPENDIX. 

2 1st  foot — %  Serjeants*  2  rank  and  file  killed;   1   rank  and  file 

wounded. 

40th  foot—I  rank  and  file  killed;  1  rank  and  file  wounded. 
Total — 13  killed,  18  wounded. 

F.  STOVEN,  D.  A.  G. 

Return  of  the  American  garrison  of  fort  Bowyer,  which  surren 
dered  to  the  force  under  major-general  Lambert,  1 1th  Febru 
ary,  1815. 

1  field-officer,  3  captains*  10  subalterns,  2  staff,  16  Serjeants, 
16  drummers,  327  rank  and  file,  20  women,  16  children,  3  servants 
not  soldiers.  F.  STOVEN,  D.  A.  G. 


NO.  LXVII. 

LETTERS  FOUND  ON  BOARD  THE  ST.  LAWRENCE  AT  THE  TIME  OF 
HER  SURRENDER  TO  THE  CHASSEUR  PRIVATEER. 

from  colonel  Malcolm  to  rear -admiral  Malcolm. 

Cumberland  Island,  5th  February ,  1815. 
I  received  your  letter  of  the  5th  ult.  it  is  written  before  your 
last  attack  on  that  place,  but  I  most  sincerely  hope  you  will  ulti 
mately  succeed.  From  all  accounts  New  Orleans  is  very  strong: 
the  enemy  will  have  gained  a  great  confidence  in  theinse4ves  from 
their  success.  What  a  disappointment  it  will  be  in  England  should 
you  fail — the  chance  of  failure  has  not  been  calculated  on,  and 
from  the  force  employed  it  has  been  made  too  sure  at  first. 
I  have  no  opinion  of  either  the  Indians  or  black  new-raised  corfis: 
the  former  in  this  country  carry  on  a  most  furious  war — murder 
ajid  desolation  mark  their  track — there  is  no  hope  but  flying,  or 
resistance  to  the  last  moment  of  life:  this  is  what  every  one  says 
of  the  Florida  Indians,  of  course  the  inhabitants  of  all  descriptions 
would  fear  to  come  near  you.  There  is  a  report  here  that  neither 
the  21st  or  44th  regiments  behaved  well,  but  as  a  report  I  treat 
it.  I  should  be  sorry  to  hear  two  British  regiments  slurred  in  an 
attack.* 

*  In  this  letter  of  the  colonel's  there  was  a  lamentation  expressed  thai 
Vis  share  of  the  prize-money  at  St.  Mary's  did  ncteiceed./fre  hundred  pounds.' 


APPENDIX*  clxxvii 

from  colonel  Malcolm  to  rear-admiral  Malcolm. 

Cumberland  Island,  1  \th  February,  1815. 
I  HOPE  we  may  hear  from  you  in  a  short  time,  and  of  your 
success  against  the  place  you  are  now  before — (New  Orleans.) 
It  tvill  refiay  the  troofisfor  all  their  trouble  and  fatigues!  I  do  not 
expect,  either  war  or  peace,  that  we  will  move  from  this  island 
this  winter;  if  the  war  goes  on,  a  garrison  must  be  left  here  in 
charge  of  the  island. 

From  sir  Thomas  Cochrane,  of  the  Surprise  frigate,  to  cafitain  Pi" 
got,  off  New  Orleans. 

Cumberland  Island,  February  \1th,  1815. 
I  CAME  here  just  two  days  too  late  to  share  in  the  good 
things  going  on.  Old  Somerville  was  senior,  and  ordered  the  at 
tack  on  St.  Mary's,  which  Barrie  executed.  The  prize-money 
will  be  about  thirty  thousand  pounds,  not  more.  Had  our  force 
been  sufficient,  the  next  movement  would  have  been  against  Sa 
vannah,  but  not  mustering  above  a  thousand  bayonets,  we  were 
content  to  keep  possession  of  this  island,  which  we  are  placing  in 
a  state  of  defence.  Our  operations  will,  I  suppose,  be  shortly  put 
a  stop  to  by  our  friend,  Jemmy  Madison,  as  peace  or  war  now  de 
pends  on  him:  the  commissioners  at  Ghent  having  signed,  and  the- 
prince  regent  ratified,  the  terms  of  a  peace,  and  hostilities  will 
cease  as  soon  as  he  does  the  same.  We  hope,  in  the  mean  time, 
better  luck  will  attend  you  at  New  Orleans  than  has  hitherto 
done,  and  that  you  will  have  time  to  give  general  Jackson  a  trim,- 
ming. 

From  sir  Thomas  Cochrane  to  sir   Thomas   Troubridge,  off  New 

Orleans. 

North  End  Cumberland  Island,  February  12M,  1815. 
I  HOPE  this  will  reach  head-quarters  in  time  for  the  St.  Law* 
rence,  who  sails  immediately  for  your  part  of  the  world  with  the 
news  of  peace  being  concluded  with  this  country,  but  of  which  I 
should  think  you  will  receive  earlier  intelligence  direct  from  Eng* 
land.  We  are  in  daily  expectation  of  a  flag  of  truce  to  inform  us 
of  Mr.  Madison's  having  ratified  the  treaty,  on  his  doing  which 
hostilities  will  immediately  cease.  I  confess  myself  by  no  means 


clxxviii  APPENDIX. 

sorry  for  this  event.  I  think  we  have  had  quite  enough  of  war 
for  some  years  to  come,  although  I  should  have  wished  we  had 
made  the  Yankees  more  sensible  of  our  power  and  ability  to  pu 
nish  them,  should  they  again  provoke  us.  ds  it  is,  except  the  in 
jury  done  to  their  trade,  we  have  little  to  boast  of.  We  are  all 
very  much  grieved  to  learn  the  disasters  in  your  quarter.  Our 
loss  seems  to  have  been  immense;  and  from  the  reports  we  pick 
up,  one  is  led  to  believe  there  was  not  much  prospect  of  success 
at  the  commencement  of  the  attack.  We  are  most  particularly 
unfortunate  in  our  general  officers  on  all  occasions.  I  am  afraid 
general  Power  and  the  regiment  with  him,  will  not  be  with  you  in 
time  to  render  any  service.  He  was  at  Bermuda  on  the  24th  ult. 
at  which  period  the  Statira  had  not  arrived. 

I  came  here  six  weeks  ago,  and  found  St.  Mary's  had  been 
taken  two  days  before  my  arrival,  which,  of  course,  cuts  me  out  of 
what  has  been  captured.  Barrie  commanded  the  party  landed; 
old  Somerville  was  senior  officer,  the  admiral  having  only  arrived 
the  day  before  me,  in  consequence  of  being  blown  off  the  coast  by 
strong  northwest  gales  on  his  way  from  the  Chesapeake.  It  was 
at  first  supposed,  as  is  usual  on  all  these  occasions,  that  a  great 
deal  of  money  would  be  made;  but  if  they  clear  thirty  thousand 
pounds,  it  mill  b?  as  much  as  they  will  do. 

from  admiral  Cockburn  to  captain  R~vans. 

Head-Quarters,  Cumberland  Island,  \\th  February,  1815. 

No  general,  however,  as  you  now  know,  has  come  here; 
jfau  have  had  them  all  your  way,  and  though  I  have  learnt  by  a 
few  hasty  lines  the  unfortunate  result  of  your  first  endeavours 
against  New  Orleans,  yet  excepting  as  far  as  relates  to  the  poor 
generals  and  to  the  gross  numbers  you  lost,  I  know  no  particu 
lars,  not  even  which  of  my  many  friends  amongst  you  are  dead  or 
a4ive,  or  which  have  broken  bones  or  whole  skins.  I  trust,  how 
ever,  it  will  prove  that  you  are  amongst  the  latter,  and  I  hope  you 
will  when  at  leisure  favour  me  with  a  detailed  account  of  all  that 
has  passed  in  your  neighbourhood. 

We  have  been  more  fortunate  here  in  our  small  way.  We 
have  taken  St.  Mary's,  a  tolerably  rich  place,  and  with  little  loss 
have  managed  to  do  much  damage  to  the  enemy,  and  we  are  now 


APPENDIX.  elxxix 

in  tolerable  security,  upon  a  large  fertile  island  in  Georgia,  though 
an  ugly  account  of  fie  ace  being  signed  (the  particulars  of  which  I 
have  sent  to  sir  admiral  Cochrane)  seems  to  promise  a  speedy 
dismissal  to  us  from  this  coast. 

From  Mr.  Sivainson  to  lieutenant  Douglas,  of  H.  M.  brig-  Sophie, 

off  New  Orleans. 

9th  February,  1815. 

WE  had  some  fine  fun  at  St.  Mary's;  the  bombs  were  at  the 
town,  and  had  plenty  of  plunder.  How  are  you  off/or  tables,  and 
chests  of  drawers, 


From  J.  Gallon  to  J.  O'Rcily,  esg.  on  board  H.  M.  shift  Tonnant, 

off  J\"ew   Orleans. 

^  Cumberland  Island,  9th  February,  1815. 

WE  have  had  fine  fun  since  I  saw  you.  What  with  the  Rap- 

pahannock  and  various  other  places,  we  have  contrived  to  pick  u}i  a, 

few  trifling  things,  such  as  mahogany  tables,  chests  of  drawers,  &c. 

From  John  Miller  to  Mr.  Thomas  Miller,  75  Old  Gravel  Lane,  Sf, 

George's,  Fast  London. 

H.  M.  shift  Lacedemonian,  off  land,  February  \"2th,  1815. 
WE  have  lately  been  employed  with  the  squadron  under  ad 
miral  Cockburn,  and  have  taken  Cumberland  Island,  and  the  town 
of  St.  Mary's,  from  the  Yankees.  Our  troops  and  sailors  behaved 
very  well;  part  of  the  black  regiment  employed  on  this  service 
acted  with  great  gallantry.  Blacky  had  no  idea  of  giving  quarters; 
and  it  was  with  difficulty  the  officers  prevented  their  putting  the 
prisoners  to  death.  The  Yankee  riflemen  fired  at  our  men  in  am 
bush;  blacky,  on  the  impulse  of  the  moment,  left  the  ranks,  and 
pursued  them  into  the  woods,  fighting  like  heroes.  A  poor  Yan 
kee,  disarmed,  begged  for  mercy.  Blacky  replied,  "  he  no  come 
in  bush  for  mercy,"  and  immediately  shot  him  dead! 

from  J.  R.  Glover  to  cahtain  Westful,  of  the  Anaconda. 

Head-  Quarters,  Cumberland  Island,  \st  February,  1815. 

WE  have  established  our  head-quarters  here,  after  ransack 
ing  St.  Mary's,  from  which  we  brought  property  to  the  amount  of 
fifty  thousand  Jiounds,  and  had  we  two  thousand  troops,  we  might 
yet  collect  a  good  harvest  before  peace  takes  place.  My  fore- 


clxxx  APPENDIX, 

bodings  will  not  allow  me  to  anticipate  either  honour  or  profit  to 
the  expedition,  of  which  you  form  a  part,  and  I  much  fear  the  con 
trary,  yet  most  fervently  do  I  hope  my  forebodings  may  prove 
groundless.  The  admiral  (Cockburn)  is  as  active  as  ever,  and 
success  in  general  attends  his  undertakings. 

From  captain  Napier,  of  the  Euryalus  frigate,  to  captain  Gordon, 
of  the  Seahorse. 

Off  Cape  Henry,  January  Z4(h,  1815. 

HERE  I  am  in  Lynhaven  bay,  the  clippers  sailing  every  day, 
and  losing  them  for  want  of  fast  sailers.  All  our  prizes  are  well 
disposed  of.  I  have  had  a  good  deal  to  do  with  them,  and  not 
many  thanks  as  you  may  suppose  from  the  agents.  I  have  peti 
tioned  the  prince  regent  in  behalf  of  the  whole  of  us,  for  a  goo d 
slice  of  prize-money,  and  I  hope  to  succeed.  You,  I  suppose,  will 
not  be  displeased  at  it.  Excuse  this  hasty  scrawl,  I  am  in  a  d — d 
bad  humour,  having  just  returned  from  an  unsuccessful  chase. 

NO.  LXVIII. 

NEGRO  STEALING,  &C. 

AFTER  the  news  of  peace  had  reached  the  infamous  Cock- 
burn,  at  Cumberland  Island,  the  following  depredations  were 
committed  on  St.  Simons,  by  the  British.  The  respectable  editor 
of  the  Savannah  Republican  introduces  the  facts  to  the  public  by 
assuring  us  that  "  implicit  reliance  may  IDC  placed"  on  the  follow 
ing  statement: 

"  St.  Simons,  February  13,  1815. 

"  As  the  only  person,  at  present,  capable  of  making  a  just 
representation  of  the  losses  sustained  by  the  inhabitants  of  St. 
Simons,  I  beg  leave  to  state  them  to  you,  with  a  view  that  it  may 
be  presented  to  the  proper  department. 

Major  Butler,  (Hampton,)  one  hundred  and  fifty  negroes.: 
his  dwelling-house  rifled;  groceries  and  every  other  article  remo 
ved  to  head-quarters  (Cumberland.) 

James  Hamilton  will  be  ruined  as  to  his  negro  property;  his 
store  pillaged;  machinery  employed  in  ginning  the  seed  cotton 
destroyed;  the  whole  of  his  packed  cotton  removed. 

A.  C.  Wylly,  forty  negroes  taken,  with  his  cotton. 

E.  Matthews,  twenty-six  negroes  and  six  bales  of  cotton. 


APPENDIX.  elxxxi 

J.  H.  Giekie,  fifteen  negroes,  several  bales  of  cotton. 

John  Couper,  the  number  of  negroes  unknown. 

In  truth,  it  is  impossible  to  state  circumstantially  the  loss 
which  the  unfortunate  inhabitants  have  sustained.  Cattle  slaugh 
tered  in  every  direction;  property  of  every  description  held  in  re 
quisition  or  destroyed.  My  feelings  prevent  my  adding  to  this 
hateful  catalogue  of  wo." 

To  the  above  I  will  subjoin  a  list  of  the  negroes  taken  from 
the  shores  of  the  Mississippi  by  the  British,  whom  they  refused  tq 
surrender,  under  the  pretext  of  considering  them  as  deserters,  as 
it  has  been  seen  in  this  work. 

Messrs.  Jumonville  de  Villiers,  20 

Kernion,     -  2 

Ducros,  9 

Beauregard,  2 

Dufossat,  1 

Mendez,      -  .4 

Delaronde,  7 

Celestin  Lachiapella,  -       43 

Versailles,  2- 

Veillon  and  Solis,    -  -                      2 

Macarty,  -                             1 

Jacques  and  Gabriel  Villere,  -       52 

Lacoste,  .                           1 3 

Delassize,  -             -6 

Bienvenu,  -             10 

Delery,       -  -          l 

Reggio,              -  3 

Harang,      -  1 

Philipon,  5 

Bronier,      -  3 

Leandre  Lacoste,  -               8 

Dclino,        -  .4 

Total         199 

Besides  the  loss  of  their  negroes,  some  of  the  planters 
above  named  have  experienced  other  heavy  losses,  such  as  the 
•whole  of  their  cattle,  hors«s,  buildings,  furniture,  &c,  to  the 
amount  of  more  than  two  hundred  thousand  dollars. 


clxxxii  APPENDIX. 

NO.  LXIX. 

The  following  document  was  omitted  in  its  proper  place;  it  is 
deemed,  however,  of  too  much  importance  to  be  excluded  entirely, 

ADDRESS 

Directed  by  major-general  Jackson  to  be  read  at  the  head  of  each 
of  the  corps  cofnfiosmg"  the  line  below  JVeiu  Orleans,  Jan.  21, 
1815. 
CITIZENS  AND  FELLOW-SOLDIERS, 

THE  enemy  has  retreated,  and  your  general  has  now  leisure 
to  proclaim  to  the  world  what  he  has  noticed  with  admiration  and 
pride — your  undaunted  courage,  your  patriotism,  and  patience, 
under  hardships  and  fatigues.  Natives  of  different  states,  acting 
together,  for  the  first  time,  in  this  camp;  differing  in  habits  and  in 
language,  instead  of  viewing  in  these  circumstances  the  germ  of  dis 
trust  and  division,  you  have  made  them  the  source  of  an  honourable 
emulation,  and  from  the  seeds  of  discord  itself  have  reaped  the  fruits 
of  an  honourable  union.  This  day  completes  the  fourth  week  since 
fifteen  hundred  of  you  attacked  treble  your  number  of  men,  who 
had  boasted  of  their  discipline,  and  their  services  under  a  celebrated 
leader,  in  a  long  and  eventful  war — attacked  them  in  their  camp, 
the  moment  they  had  profaned  the  soil  of  freedom  with  their  hos 
tile  tread,  and  inflicted  a  blow  which  was  a  prelude  to  the  final 
result  of  their  attempt  to  conquer,  or  their  poor  contrivances  to 
divide  us.  A  few  hours  was  sufficient  to  unite  the  gallant  band, 
though  at  the  moment  they  received  the  welcome  order  to  march 
they  were  separated  many  leagues,  in  different  directions  from  the 
city.  The  gay  rapidity  of  the  march,  and  the  cheerful  counte 
nances  of  the  officers  and  men,  would  have  induced  a  belief  that 
some  festive  entertainment,  not  the  strife  of  battle,  was  the  object 
to  which  they  hastened  with  so  much  eagerness  and  hilarity.  In 
the  conflict  that  ensued,  the  same  spirit  was  supported,  and  my 
communication  to  the  executive  of  the  United  States  have  testified 
the  sense  I  entertained  of  the  merits  of  the  corps  and  officers  that 
were  engaged.  Resting  on  the  field  of  battle,  they  retired  in  per 
fect  order  on  the  next  morning  to  these  lines,  destined  to  become 
the  scene  of  future  victories,  which  they  were  to  share  with  the 
rest  of  you,  my  brave  companions  in  arms.  Scarcely  were  your 
lines  a  protection  against  musket-shotj  when  on  the  28th  a  dispa- 


APPENDIX.  clxxxiii 

sition  was  made  to  attack  them  with  all  the  pomp  and  parade  of 
military  tactics,  as  improved  by  those  veterans  of  the  Spanish  war. 
Their  batteries  of  heavy  cannon  kept  up  an  incessant  fire; 
their  rockets  illuminated  the  air;  and  under  their  cover  two  strong 
columns  threatened  our  flanks.  The  foe  insolently  thought  that 
this  spectacle  was  too  imposing  to  be  resisted,  and  in  the  intoxi- 
tion  of  his  pride  he  already  saw  our  lines  abandoned  without  a  con 
test — how  were  those  menacing  appearances  met? 

By  shouts  of  defiance,  by  a  manly  countenance,  not  to  be 
shaken  by  the  roar  of  his  cannon,  by  the  glare  of  his  firework 
rockets;  by  an  artillery  served  with  superior  skill,  and  with  dead 
ly  effect.  Never,  my  brave  friends,  can  your  general  forget  the 
testimonials  of  attachment  to  our  glorious  cause,  of  indignant  ha 
tred  to  our  foe,  of  affectionate  confidence  in  your  chief,  that  re 
sounded  from  every  rank,  as  he  passed  along  your  line.  This 
animating  scene  damped  the  courage  of  the  enemy;  he  dropped 
his  scaling  ladders  and  fascines,  and  the  threatened  attack  dwin 
dled  into  a  demonstration,  which  served  only  to  show  the  empti 
ness  of  his  parade,  and  to  inspire  you  with  a  just  confidence  in 
yourselves. 

The  new  year  was  ushered  in  with  the  most  tremendous  fire 
his  whole  artillery  could  produce:  a  few  hours  only,  however,  were 
necessary  for  the  brave  and  skilful  men  who  directed  our  own  to 
dismount  his  cannon,  destroy  his  batteries,  and  effectually  silence 
his  fire.  Hitherto,  my  brave  friends,  in  the  contest  on  our  lines, 
your  courage  had  been  passive  only;  you  stood  with  calmness,  a 
fire  that  would  have  tried  the  firmness  of  a  veteran,  and  you  an 
ticipated  a  nearer  contest  with  an  eagerness  which  was  soon  to  be 
gratified. 

On  the  8th  of  January  the  final  effort,  was  made.  At  the 
dawn  of  day  the  batteries  opened  and  the  columns  advanced. 
Knowing  thatthe  volunteers  from  Tennessee  and  the  militia  from 
Kentucky  were  stationed  on  your  left,  it  was  there  they  directed 
their  chief  attack. 

Reasoning  always  from  false  principles,  they  expected  little 
opposition  from  men  whose  officers  even  were  not  in  uniform,  who 
were  ignorant  of  the  rules  of  dress,  and  who  had  never  been  caned 
into  discipline — fatal  mistake!  a  fire  incessantly  kept  up,  directed 


clxxxiv  APPENDIX. 

with  calmness  and  with  unerring  aim,  strewed  the  field  with  the 
bravest  officers  and  men  of  the  column  which  slowly  advanced, 
according  to  the  most  approved  rules  of  European  tactics,  and 
was  cut  down  by  the  untutored  courage  of  American  militia. 
Unable  to  sustain  this  galling-  and  unceasing  fire,  some  hundreds 
nearest  the  entrenchment  called  for  quarter,  which  was  granted— 
the  rest  retreating,  were  rallied  at  some  distance,  but  only  to  make 
them  a  surer  mark  for  the  grape  and  canister  shot  of  our  artil 
lery,  which,  without  exaggeration,  mowed  down  whole  ranks  at 
every  discharge;  and  at  length  they  precipitately  retired  from  the 
field. 

Our  right  had  only  a  short  contest  to  sustain  with  a  few  rash 
men  who  fatally  for  themselves,  forced  their  entrance  into  the  un 
finished  redoubt  on  the  river.  They  were  quickly  dispossessed, 
and  this  glorious  day  terminated  with  the  loss  to  the  enemy  of 
their  commander-in-chief  and  one  major-general  killed,  another 
major-general  wounded,  the  most  experienced  and  bravest  of  their 
officers,  and  more  than  three  thousand  men  killed,  wounded  and 
missing,  while  our  ranks,  my  friends,  were  thinned  only  by  the 
loss  of  six  of  our  brave  companions  killed,  and  seven  disabled  by 
wounds — wonderful  interposition  of  Heaven!  unexampled  event 
in  the  history  of  war! 

Let  us  be  grateful  to  the  God  of  battles  who  has  directed  the 
arrows  of  indignation  against  our  invaders,  while  he  covered  with 
his  protecting  shield  the  brave  defenders  of  their  country. 

After  this  unsuccessful  and  disastrous  attempt,  their  spirits 
were  broken,  their  force  was  destroyed,  and  their  whole  attention 
was  employed  in  providing  the  means  of  escape.  This  they  have 
effected;  leaving  their  heavy  artillery  in  our  power,  and  many  of 
their  wounded  to  our  clemency.  The  consequences  of  this  short, 
but  decisive  campaign,  are  incalculably  important.  The  .pride  of 
our  arrogant  enemy  humbled,  his  forces  broken,  his  leaders  killed, 
his  insolent  hopes  of  our  disunion  frustrated — his  expectation  of 
rioting  in  our  spoils  and  wasting  our  country  changed  into  igno 
minious  defeat,  shameful  flight,  and  a  reluctant  acknowledgment 
of  the  humanity  and  kindness  of  those  whom  he  had  doomed  to 
all  the  horrors  and  humiliation  of  a  conquered  state. 


APPENDIX,  clxxxv 

On  the  other  side,  unanimity  established,  disaffection  crushed, 
confidence  restored,  your  country  saved  from  conquest,  your  pro 
perty  from  pillage,  your  wives  and  daughters  from  insult  and  vio 
lation — the  union  preserved  from  dismemberment,  and  perhaps  a 
period  put  by  this  decisive  stroke  to  a  bloody  and  savage  war. 
These,  my  brave  friends,  are  the  consequences  of  the  efforts  you 
have  made,  and  the  success  with  which  they  have  been  crowned 
by  Heaven. 

These  important  results  have  been  effected  by  the  united 
courage  and  perseverance  of  the  army;  but  which  the  different 
corps  as  well  as  the  individuals  that  composed  it,  have  vied  with 
each  other  in  their  exertions  to  produce.  The  share  they  have 
respectively  had,  wiH  be  pointed  out  in  the  general  order  accom 
panying  this  address.  But  the  gratitude,  the  admiration  of  their 
country,  offers  a  fairer  reward  than  that  which  any  praises  of  the 
general  can  bestow,  and  the  best  is  that  ol  which  they  can  never 
be  deprived,  the  consciousness  of  having  done  their  duty,  and  of 
meriting  the  applause  they  will  receive. 

GENERAL  ORDERS. 

Head- Quarters,  7th  Military  District,  Camp  below  New  Orleans, 

Adjutant  general's  Office,  January  21, 

Before  the  camp  at  these  memorable  lines  shall  be  broken 
up,  the  general  thinks  it  a  duty  to  the  brave  army  which  has  de 
fended  them,  publicly  to  notice  the  conduct  of  the  different  corps 
which  compose  it.  The  behaviour  of  the  regular  troops,  consist 
ing  of  parts  of  the  7th  and  44th  regiments  of  infantry,  and  the 
corps  of  marines,  all  commanded  by  colonel  Ross,  has  been  such 
as  to  merit  his  warm  approbation.  The  7th  regiment  was  led  by 
major  Peyre,  and  the  44th  by  captain  Baker,  in  the  action  of  the 
23d,  in  a  manner  that  does  those  officers  the  highest  honour. 
They  have  continued  through  the  campaign  to  do  their  duty  with 
the  same  zeal  and  ability  with  which  it  was  commenced.  On  that 
occasion  the  country  lost  a  valuable  officer  in  the  death  of  lieute 
nant  M^Clellan  of  the  7th  infantry,  who  fell  while  bravely  leading 
his  company  Lieutenant  Dupuy  of  the  44th,  although  severely 
wounded  in  this  action,  returned  in  time  to  take  a  share  in  all  the 
subsequent  attacks. 

a  a 


clxxxvi  APPENDIX. 

To  the  Tennessee  mounted  gunmen,  to  their  gallant  leader, 
brigadier-general  Coffee,  the  general  presents  his  warmest  thanks, 
not  only  for  their  uniform  good  conduct  in  action,  but  for  the 
wonderful  patience  with  which  they  have  borne  the  fatigue,  and 
the  perseverance  with  which  they  surmounted  the  difficulties  of  a 
most  painful  inarch,  in  order  to  meet  the  enemy— a  diligence  and 
zeal  to  which  we  probably  owe  the  salvation  of  the  country.  Or 
dinary  activity  would  have  brought  them  too  late  to  act  the  bril 
liant  part  they  have  performed  in  the  defeat  of  our  invaders.  All 
the  officers  of  that  corps  have  distinguished  themselves;  but  the 
general  cannot  avoid  mentioning  the  name  of  lieutenant-colonel 
Lauderdale  who  fell  on  the  night  of  the  23d — and  those  of  colo 
nels  Dyer,  Gibson  and  Elliott,  who  were  wounded,  but  disdaining 
personal  considerations,  remained  firm  to  their  duty. 

The  cavalry  from  the  Mississippi  territory,  under  their  en- 
terprizing  leader  major  Hinds,  was  always  ready  to  perform  eve 
ry  service  which  the  nature  of  the  country  enabled  them  to  exe 
cute.  The  daring  manner  in  which  they  reconnoitred  the  enemy 
on  his  lines,  excited  the  admiration  of  one  army  and  the  astonish 
ment  of  the  other. 

Major-general  Carrol,  commanding  the  detachment  of  West 
Tennessee  militia,  has  shown  the  greatest  zeal  for  the  service,  a 
strict  attention  to  duty,  and  an  ability  and  courage  that  will  always 
recommend  him  to  the  gratitude  of  his  country.  His  troops  have, 
since  the  lines  were  formed,  occupied  and  defended  the  weakest 
part  of  them,  and  borne,  without  a  murmur,  an  encampment  on  a 
marshy  and  unhealthy  soil.  In  the  memorable  action  of  the  8th 
January,  the  chief  effort  of  the  enemy  was  directed  against  them; 
but  their  valour,  and  that  of  the  brave  men  who  supported  them, 
(general  Coffee's  brigade  on  the  left,  and  a  part  of  the  Kentucky 
troops  on  the  right)  soon  made  it  clear  that  a  rampart  of  high- 
minded  men  is  a  better  defence  than  the  most  regular  fortification. 

General  Adair,  who,  owing  to  the  indisposition  6f  general 
Thomas,  brought  up  the  Kentucky  militia,  has  shown  that  troops 
will  always  be  valiant  when  their  leaders  are  so.  No  men  ever 
displayed  a  more  gallant  spirit  than  these  did  under  that  most  va- 
l liable  officer.  His  country  is  under  obligations  to  him. 


APPENDIX.  clxxxvh 

The  general  would  be  ungrateful  or  insensible  to  merit,  if  he 
<did  not  particularly  notice  the  conduct  of  the  officers  and  men 
who  so  bravely  supported  and  so  skilfully  directed  his  artillery. 
Colonel  M'Rea,  in  the  action  of  the  23d,  showed,  as  he  always 
does,  great  courage.  Lieutenant  Spotts,  under  whose  immediate 
direction  our  artillery  had  been  placed,  led  it  to  action  with  a  da 
ring  courage  worthy  of  admiration.  Captain  Humphrey  com 
manded  the  first  battery  on  our  right—- the  service  is  greatly  in 
debted  to  that  officer,  not  only  for  the  able  and  gallant  manner  in 
which  he  directed  his  fire,  but  for  the  general  activity  he  dis 
played  in  his  department. 

Lieutenant  Norris  of  the  navy,  with  Mr.  Walker  Martin  and 
a  detachment  of  seamen,  was  stationed  at  the  2d  battery;  and  lieu 
tenant  Crawley,  with  Mr.  W.  Livingston  (master's  mate)  with  a 
similar  detachment,  were  stationed  at  a  thirty-two-pounder,  which 
was  remarkably  well  directed — they  performed  their  duty  with 
the  zeal  and  bravery  which  has  always  characterized  the  navy  of 
the  United  States.  Captains  Dominique  and  Belluche,  lately  com 
manding  privateers  at  Barataria,  with  part  of  their  former  crew 
and  many  brave  citizens  of  New  Orleans,  were  stationed  at  Nos.  3 
and  4.  The  general  cannot  avoid  giving  his  warm  approbation  of 
the  manner  in  which  these  gentlemen  have  uniformly  conducted 
themselves  while  under  his  command,  and  of  the  gallantry  with 
which  they  have  redeemed  the  pledge  they  gave  at  the  opening 
of  the  campaign  to  defend  the  country.  The  brothers  Lafitte 
.have  exhibited  the  same  courage  and  fidelity;  and  the  general 
promises  that  the  government  shall  be  duly  apprized  of  their  con 
duct.  Colonel  Perry,  deputy  quarter-master-general,  volunteered 
his  services  at  No.  6 — he  was  ably  aided  by  lieutenant  Kerr  of  the 
artillery — his  battery  was  well  served,  bravely  supported,  and 
greatly  annoyed  the  enemy — Nos.  8  and  9  were  directed  by  lieu 
tenant  Spotts  with  his  usual  skill  and  bravery,  assisted  by  Mr. 
Cheaveau. 

The  general  takes  the  highest  pleasure  in  noticing  the  conduct 
of  general  Garrigue  de  Flaujac,  commanding  one  of  the  brigades 
of  militia  of  this  state,  and  member  of  the  senate.  His  brigade  not 
being  in  the  field  as  soon  as  the  invasion  was  known,  he  repaired 
to  the  camp  and  offered  himself  as  a  volunteer  for  the  service  of  a 


clxxxviii  APPENDIX. 

piece  of  artillery,  which  he  directed  with  the  skill  which  was  to 
be  expected  from  an  experienced  artillery  officer:  disdaining  the 
exemption  afforded  by  his  seat  in  the  senate,  he  continued  in  this 
subordinate  but  honourable  station,  and  by  his  example  as  well  as 
his  exertion,  has  rendered  essential  services  to  his  country.     Mr. 
Sebastian  Hiriard  of  the  same  body,  set  the  same  example,  served 
a  considerable  time  in  the  ranks  of  the  volunteer  battalion,  and  af 
terwards  as  adjutant  of  the  coloured  troops.     Major  Plauche's 
battalion  of  volunteers,  though  deprived  of  the  valuable  services 
of  major  Carmac,  who  commanded  them,  by  a  wound  which  that 
officer  received  in  the  attack  of  the  28th  of  December,  have  re 
alized  all  the  anticipations  which  the  general  had  formed  of  their 
conduct.  Major  Plauche,  and  major  St.  Geme  of  that  corps,  have 
distinguished  themselves  by  their  activity,  their  courage,  and  their 
zeal;  and  the  whole  corps  have  greatly  contributed  to  enable  the 
general  to  redeem  the  pledge  he  gave,  when  at  the  opening  of  the 
campaign  he  promised  the  country,  not  only  safety,  but  a  splendid 
triumph  over  its  insolent  invaders.     The  two  corps   of  coloured 
volunteers  have  not  disappointed  the  hopes  that  were  formed  of 
their  courage  and  perseverance  in  the  performance  of  their  duty. 
Majors  Lacoste  and  Daquin,  who  commanded  them,  have  deserv 
ed  well  of  their  country.     Captain  Savary's  conduct  has  been  no 
ticed  in  the  account  rendered  of  the  battle  of  the  23d,  and  that 
officer  has  since  continued  to  merit  the  highest  praise.     Captain 
Beale's  company  of  the  city  riflemen  has  sustained  by  its  subse 
quent  conduct  the  reputation  it  acquired  in  the  action  of  the  23d. 
Colonel  de  la  llonde,  of  the  Louisiana  militia,  has  been  extremely 
serviceable  by  his  exertions,  and  has  shown  great  courage,  and  an 
uniform  attachment  to  the  cause  of  the  country. 

General  Humbert,  who  offered  his  services  as  a  volunteer, 
has  continually  exposed  himself  to  the  greatest  dangers,  with  his 
characteristic  bravery,  as  has  also  the  Mexican  field-marshal, 
Don  Juan  de  Anaya,  who  acted  in  the  same  capacity.  The  ge 
neral  acknowledges  the  important  assistance  he  has  received  from 
commodore  Patterson,  as  well  by  his  professional  exertion,  as  the 
zealous  co-operation  of  his  department  during  the  whole  course  of 
the  campaign.  Captain  Henley,  on  board  of  the  Carolina,  and  af 
terwards  in  directing  the  erection  of  several  batteries  at  the  bayou 


APPENDIX.  clxxxix 

and  on  the  right  bank  of  the  river,  was  of  great  utility  to  the  ar 
my.  Lieutenant  Alexis,  of  the  navy,  stationed  in  the  navy  arse 
nal,  was  indefatigable  in  exertions  to  forward  to  the  army  every 
thing  which  could  facilitate  its  operations-— his  zeal  and  activity 
deserve  the  notice  of  the  government.  Major  Nicks,  who,  by  an 
accidental  wound  was  deprived  of  the  pleasure  of  commanding 
the  7th  regiment  during  the  campaign,  was  continually  employed 
in  the  fort,  and  furnished  the  ammunition  and  the  artillery  that  was 
wanted  with  the  greatest  activity  and  promptitude.  To  the  vo 
lunteers  of  the  Mississippi  territory,  and  to  the  militia  of  the  re 
moter  parts  of  this  state,  who  have  arrived  since  the  decisive  ac 
tion  of  the  8th,  the  general  tenders  his  thanks,  and  is  convinced 
that  nothing  but  opportunity  was  wanting  to  entitle  them  to  the 
praises  that  have  been  merited  by  the  rest  of  the  army.  Captain 
Ogden's  troop  of  horse  was  peculiarly  useful  by  their  local  know 
ledge  of  the  ground  on  which  they  acted;  and  the  small  detach 
ment  of  the  Attacapas  dragoons,  stationed  near  head-quarters, 
were  indefatigable  in  performing  all  the  duties  which  devolved  on 
them. 

The  general  would  not  do  justice  to  his  staff  if  he  did  not  be 
stow  deserved  praise  on  the  adjutant-general,  colonel  Butler,  and 
bis  assistant,  major  Chotard,  for  their  zeal  and  activity  in  the  im 
portant  department  of  service  confided  to  them,  and  for  the  brave 
ry  which  led  them  wherever  danger  or  duty  required  their  pre 
sence.  The  vigilance,  courage,  and  attention  to  duty,  exhibited 
during  the  campaign  by  colonel  Haynes,  and  his  two  assistants, 
majors  Davis  and  Hampton,  have  been  appreciated,  as  they  de 
served  to  be,  by  the  general. 

The  general's  aids-de-camp,  Thomas  L.  Butler  and  captain 
John  Reed,  as  well  as  his  volunteer  aids,  Messrs.  Livingston, 
Duncan,  Grymes,  Duplessis  and  major  Davezac  de  Castera,  the 
judge  advocate,  have  merited  the  thanks  of  the  general  by  the 
calm  and  deliberate  courage  they  have  displayed  on  every  occa 
sion,  and  in  every  situation  that  called  it  forth.  The  topographi 
cal  engineer,  major  Tatum,  exhibited  all  the  ardour  of  youth  in  the 
hour  of  peril,  united  to  the  experience  acquired  by  his  long  ser 
vices.  The  chief  engineer,  major  Lacarriere  Latour,  has  been 
useful  to  the  army  by  his  talents  and  bravery.  The  same  praises 


<;xc  APPENDIX. 

are  due  to  his  assistants,  captain  Lewis  Livingston  and  Mr.  La- 
trobe.  The  medical  staff  has  merited  well  of  the  country,  and  the 
general  would  not  do  justice  to  his  own  feelings  were  he  to  with 
hold  from  Dr.  Kerr,  hospital  surgeon,  who  volunteered  his  services, 
and  Dr.  Flood,  the  just  tribute  of  applause  deserved  by  them  for 
their  medical  skill  and  personal  bravery.  The  quarter-master's 
department,  though  deprived  of  the  personal  exertions  of  colonel 
Piatt,  who  was  wounded  in  the  night  action  of  the  23d,  performed 
well  their  duties.  Major-general  Villere  and  brigadier  Morgan 
have  merited  the  approbation  of  the  general  by  their  unwearied 
attention  since  they  took  the  field. 

The  large  mortar  was  ably  directed  by  captain  Lefebre  and 
by  Mr.  Gilbert.  Captaia  Blanchard  was  very  useful  as  an  engi 
neer,  and  merits  the  general's  praise  for  the  celerity  and  skill  with 
which  he  erected  the  battery  which  now  commands  the  river,  on 
the  right  of  the  camp.  Mr.  Busquet  and  Mr.  Ducoin,  of  major 
St.  Geme's  company,  displayed  great  knowledge  and  dexterity  as 
artillerists.  To  the  whole  army  the  general  presents  the  assur 
ance  of  his  official  approbation,  and  of  his  individual  regard.  This 
splendid  campaign  will  be  considered  as  entitling  every  man  who 
has  served  in  it  to  the  salutation  of  his  brother  in  arms. 
By  command, 

ROBERT  BUTLER,  Adjt.  Gen. 


CATALOGUE  OF  BOOKS 

PUBLISHED 

BY  JOHN  CONRAD  &  CO. 

NO.  68  CHESNUT-STREET,    PHILADELPHIA* 

BONAPARTE'S  CAMPAIGN  IN  RUSSIA. 

A  Circumstantial  Narrative  of  the  Campaign  in  Russia,  embel 
lished  with  plans  of  the  battles  of  Moskwa  and  Malo-Jaroslavitz, 
containing  a  faithful  description  of  the  affecting:  and  interesting 
scenes  of  which  the  author  was  an  eye  witness.  By  Eugene  JLa- 
daume,  captain  of  the  royal  geographical  engineers,  ex-officer  of 
the  ordnance  ut  prince  Eugene,  Sec.  Sec; 

"  The  expedition  of  Bonaparte  into  Russia,  of  which  this  work 
contains  a  circumstantial  account,  possesses,  both  in  itself  and  in 
the  results  which  followed,  claims  to  attention  far  surpassing  those 
of  which  any  other  military  narrative  can  boast.  The  army  which 
was  destined  for  the  subversion  of  the  Russian  empire  exhibited 
a  rare  combination  of  all  that  was  most  precious  in  the  military 
art.  It  formed  the  grandest  display  of  human  power  which  the 
world  had  ever  seen,  whether  we  look  to  the  quality  and  equip 
ment  of  the  troops,  the  genius,  talent,  and  devotion  of  the  lead 
ers,  or  to  the  extraordinary  and  enterprising  character  of  its  hi 
therto  victorious  chief,— The  sudden  destruction  of  this  immense 
power,  and  of  the  system  which  it  upheld,  is  one  of  those  extra 
ordinary  revolutions  in  human  affairs  which  rouses  the  most  indif 
ferent  to  reflection.  The  author  of  the  work  before  us  was  et- 
gaged  in  the  memorable  and  ill-fated  enterprise,  as  one  of  the  en 
gineers  of  the  fourth  corps,  commanded  by  Eugene  Beauharnois, 
and  relates  what  came  under  his  own  personal  observation.  It 
was  by  the  light  of  the  flames  of  Moscow  that  he  penned  the  sto 
ry  of  its  conflagration;  the  narrative  of  the  unfortunate  passage  of 
the  Beresina  was  written  on  the  banks  of  that  river;  and  the  plans 
of  the  different  battles  were  taken  on  the  ground  on  which  they 
were  fought.  The  difficulties  which  he  had  to  overcome  in  the 
prosecution  of  such  a  work  may  be  easily  conceived.  Struggling, 
with  his  companions  in  arms,  against  the  most  urgent  wants  c( 
nature — benumbed  with  cold,  and  tormented  with  hunger — uncer 
tain  at  the  rising  of  the  sun  if  he  should  see  its  parting  rays,  and 
doubting  at  night  if  he  should  see  the  morning's  dawn,  he  pursu 
ed  his  melancholy  task,  generally  at  night,  beside  a  wretched 


tire,  and  surrounded  by  his  dead  and  dying  companions. — Such  is 
the  striking  and  affecting  account  of  the  circumstances  under 
which  the  author  collected  the  materials  of  his  interesting  narra 
tive.  Nor  are  we  disposed  to  call  in  question  the  truth  of  his  re 
presentation;  for  his  descriptions,  however  powerful  and  striking* 
bear  not  the  least  mark  of  exaggeration.  Plain  facts  are  narrated; 
and  though  they  may  be  occasionally  thrown  together  with  some 
degree  of  art,  so  as  to  heighten  the  general  effect  of  the  picture, 
we  have  no  doubt  that  the  representation  falls  far  short  of  the  rea 
lity." — Edinburgh  He-view. 

"  The  rank  and  honours  enjoyed  by  M.  JLabaume  under  the  ex- 
emperor  inspire  us  with  confidence;  and  hU  official  narrative 
commands  our  warmest  approbation.  He  relates  what  he  has  ac 
tually  seen,  he  describes  what  he  has  really  felt,  while  partaking 
the  heaviest  disasters  that  ever  befel  a  great  nation.  His  is  not  a 
specious  romance,  artfully  arranged,  and  heightened  by  false  co 
louring;  but  a  sad  and  memorable  tale,  retracing  existing  horrors. 

"  We  have  greatly  to  admire  the  language  in  which  M,  La- 
baume  speaks  of  the  ex-emperor. 

"  M.  Labaume's  animated  descriptions  reach  to  every  heart. 
His  style  is  simple  and  unaffected;  but  it  is  distinguished  by  a 
genuine  pathos  that  powerfully  interests  th.e  feelings. 

Critical  Review. 

CHARLEMAGNE. 

Charlemagne,  or  the  Church  Delivered-,  an  Epic  Poem,  in 
twenty-four  books.  By  Lucien  Bonaparte,  of  the  Institute  of 
France,  &c.  Translated  by  the  Rev.  S.  Butler,  D.  D.  and  the  Rev. 
Francis  Hodgson,  A.  M,  2  vols.  24mo.  g2. 

AGRICULTURAL  CHEMISTRY. 

Elements  of  Agricultural  Chemistry;  in  a  Course  of  Lectures 
for  the  Board  of  Agriculture.  By  Sir  Humphrey  Davy,  L.  L. 
D.  F.  R.  S.  &c.  Price  in  boards,  $2  75  cts. 

ARTS  AND  MANUFACTURES. 

A  Statement  of  the  Arts  and  Manufactures  of  the  United  States 
of  America,  exhibiting  a  collection  of  facts,  evincing  their  bene* 
factions  to  agriculture,  commerce,  navigation,  and  the  fisheries; 
and  their  subserviency  to  the  public  defence:  the  actual  progress, 
condition,  and  establishment  of  American  Arts  and  Manufactures, 
and  their  connexion  with  the  wealth  and  strength  of  the  United 


States:  together  with  a  series  of  tables  of  the  several  branches  of 
American  manufactures,  exhibiting  them  by  states,  territories, 
districts,  and  counties,  as  returned  in  the  reports  of  the  marshals 
and  secretaries  of  territories— Prepared  in  execution  of  an  in 
struction  from  the  Secretary  of  the  Treasury.  By  Tench  Coxe, 
esq.  Quarto,  g3  25  cts. 

DUYDEN'S  VIRGIL. 

The  Works  of  Virgil,  translated  into  English  verse,  by  John 
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GOLDSMITH'S  ROMAN  HISTORY,  abridged  by  himself, 
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Paris  in  1812  and  1814.  By  the  Rev.  William  Shepherd,  gl. 
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